Lindsey Heaps Absent from USWNT vs. Paraguay Match: Here’s Why
The U.S. women’s national team (USWNT) is set to start its 2026 schedule without captain Lindsey Heaps. Heaps will not participate in the team’s friendlies against Paraguay on January 24 and Chile on January 27. USWNT head coach Emma Hayes has selected an all-NWSL roster for these matches, which fall outside of the FIFA international window.
Lindsey Heaps: A Short Break from USWNT
At present, Heaps remains a key player for Olympic Lyon, but this is about to change. She has announced her move to the newly established NWSL club, Denver Summit. This transition will occur in June after her contract with Lyon concludes.
Heaps, hailing from Golden, Colorado, will return to her roots by joining the Summit during their inaugural season.
Heaps’ Career Highlights
At 31 years old, Lindsey Heaps is celebrated as one of the most accomplished players in USWNT history. Her impressive career includes:
- Multiple NWSL and French league titles
- Champions League title
- Olympic gold medal
- FIFA World Cup honors
Heaps has made 170 appearances for the USWNT and has served as its captain since 2023. Her commitment to the team will continue when they compete next in the 2026 SheBelieves Cup.
Upcoming Matches for the USWNT
The team will face Argentina, Canada, and Colombia in March 2026. Despite Heaps’ absence in the early friendlies, her future contributions to the national team remain crucial as they gear up for international competitions.
