Piero Hincapie signs contract extension with Bayer 04

“This signature is more than just signing a contract,” Piero Hincapie said. “Bayer 04 Leverkusen has become like a family to me after three-and-a-half years. The club and the fans are special, and we have a team that showed last season what’s possible when you unconditionally stick together. I’m really happy that people are pleased with me and giving me the chance to continue to help shape the future of this club.”

Bayer 04 managing director for sport Simon Rolfes stressed the importance of the tough-tackling and versatile defender to the Werkself. “Piero Hincapie came to us as a 19-year-old in 2021, but even then we could see the confidence he has in his abilities,” Rolfes recalls of the now 43-time Ecuador international’s start to life in Leverkusen. “Today Piero battles on an equal footing with world-class players like Lionel Messi and Mo Salah. He’s earned that respect from around the world. It’s even better for us that Piero has now committed himself long term again to Bayer 04.”

Hincapie moved to the BayArena from Argentinian side Talleres in 2021. The 1.84-metre-tall left-footer has turned out to be an ideal signing for Bayer 04. He’s taken the step from talented youngster to top professional and played a big part in the club’s Bundesliga and DFB Pokal double, as well as the Supercup victory of 2024. The 22-year-old has so far made 141 competitive appearances for the Werkself, scoring five goals and providing three assists.