Sarasota, FL — Sarasota Paradise today announced the signing of Finnish midfielder Maximus Tainio, the first international player to join the club’s professional roster ahead of the 2026 USL League One season.
Tainio arrives in Sarasota with a background shaped by top level football, spending time in youth academies in various parts of the world. He played for the Finland Youth National teams throughout his formative years and developed into a professional player at the Tottenham Hotspur academy, one of the most respected youth environments in Europe. He later made his professional debut with FC Haka, one of the most historic clubs in Finland. His path has taken him through different countries, leagues, and styles of play, and he now takes his next step to Paradise as the club builds toward its first season at the professional level.
Maximus is the son of former Finland international and Tottenham midfielder Teemu Tainio, but has carved out his own identity as a reliable, technically strong midfielder with tenacity and stamina to lead by example day to day. His years of experience in Europe adds balance and quality to the group Sarasota is assembling for 2026.
“Hey Paradise fans, I am really excited to be joining Sarasota Paradise. I cannot wait for the season to start and hope to see you all at the stadium. My goals are to help the team as much as I can and bring my experience to the group,” said Tainio.
Head Coach Mika Elovaara spoke about what Tainio brings to the team and why this signing matters as the club continues to grow.
“Signing Maxi as our first international player gives our fan base the first taste of the versatility and foundation of our team for years to come. Paradise fans will love watching him in the midfield. He’s a consummate pro and will do whatever it takes to win. He’s got an engine to run miles and miles every game, he will keep opposing back lines on their toes with his passing range, and his set piece services give us good options to be threatening every time we have a corner or a free kick.
Tainio’s arrival represents a meaningful moment for Sarasota. It is the first time a player from outside the United States has chosen to come to Paradise, a sign of the club’s growing reach and the rising interest in what is being built here. As Sarasota prepares for its first professional season, additions like Tainio show the direction and ambition of the club.
Sarasota Paradise will continue announcing players through the winter as the club finalizes its roster for the start of the season. Preseason begins in January with kickoff in March 2026.
Catch Tainio and the Paradise squad in action this season — contact our ticketing team at 941-207-5873 to secure your tickets!
