The government of President Daniel Noboa Azin has announced a 25% increase in the national budget for sports in 2026, raising state investment to USD 51.7 million. The decision aims to restore institutional capacity and revitalize Ecuador’s sports system, which officials say has suffered from years of neglect.
On February 19, President Noboa attended a sports event with young people at the Coliseum of the University of Guayaquil. Representatives from federations, leagues, and sector organizations were also present to support this policy move. The event underscored the government’s commitment to viewing the sports system as a strategic partner in social recovery and nation-building.
During his remarks, President Noboa stated: “para que el esfuerzo de los deportistas tenga sentido, es indispensable la seriedad de una institución que responda a ese compromiso,” adding that this responsibility falls on authorities and sports organizations who must act transparently and manage resources efficiently.
He further noted: “cuando uno apoya el deporte, apoya comunidades, familias y jóvenes; sostiene sueños.” With more than USD 10 million added compared to 2025, funds for youth sports will rise by 24%, high-performance sports by 24%, physical education by 50%, and recreation by over 52%. “Capacidad y talento sobran en este país. Estoy convencido porque lo hemos visto con deportistas ejemplares,” said Noboa.
Gilda Alcívar, Minister of Education, Sports and Culture, described the measure as strategic because it makes sport a national priority and incorporates it into public policy areas such as security, health, violence prevention, and social development. She commented: “Nosotros lo vemos como algo mucho más profundo: es la luz que se enciende en estas canchas para alejar a nuestros niños de la violencia, de las garras del narcotráfico.”
The government says this move marks a shift from years of budget constraints affecting the sector’s operation and aims to turn these new resources into real opportunities for thousands across Ecuador.
