COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced on Tuesday it had signed defender Patrick Burner to a multi-year contract through the 2027 USL Championship season with a club option for the 2028 campaign. The transaction is pending league and federation approval.

Burner most recently competed for North Carolina FC during the 2025 season, where he made 24 appearances, contributed 40 clearances and 18 interceptions while maintaining a 78.2% passing accuracy rate, demonstrating both his defensive sharpness and comfort in possession.

“Patrick brings in fantastic experience from big European and international levels, along with his experience last year in USL,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Alan McCann. “His quality and versatility make us instantly stronger in a number of positions. His character complements the dressing room very well and makes us stronger there also. We're excited for him and his family to get to Colorado Springs.”

Before his arrival in the United States, Burner built an accomplished professional resume over nearly a decade in France. The 29-year-old developed through the OGC Nice academy, earning opportunities with both the club’s first and second teams before moving on to Nîmes Olympique. Across his Ligue 1 career, Burner amassed 77 appearances and 5,246 minutes, showcasing consistency at one of Europe’s most competitive levels.

The 29-year-old has also been a key contributor for the Martinique Men’s National Team since making his debut in 2021. He has earned 16 caps and scored four goals while featuring in the Concacaf Nations League and Gold Cup.

“I’m very happy to join the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC team and all of its supporters,” said Burner. “This is a new chapter in my journey here in the USA, surrounded by an ambitious and passionate club. I can’t wait to get started, and I’m ready to give everything on the field in the seasons ahead.”