Icelandic handball star Lovisa Thompson signs with Benfica until 2028

Lovisa Thompson, a 26‑year‑old Icelandic international handball player, has signed a contract with Portuguese club S.L. Benfica that runs until 2028. The midfielder joins Benfica from Valur, where she helped win the EHF European Cup in the 2024/25 season, and will be the first time she plays outside the Nordic region after stints with IF Grótta and Ringkobing Handbold.

Thompson described Benfica’s history, facilities and the city of Lisbon as decisive factors in her decision, stating, “Benfica is a huge club with a great history… I was very excited because I know Lisbon is a wonderful city.” She said she aims to integrate quickly, learn from teammates and help the club add more titles to its already impressive record.

Her résumé includes an Icelandic championship, multiple national cup victories and the MVP award from the 2019 Icelandic Cup final. She will be available to play in various attacking positions for Benfica’s handball team.