In 2026, the Ecuadorian government has announced an investment of $51.7 million in sports, representing a 25% increase in allocations to sports organizations. Deputy Minister Roberto Ibáñez highlights this decision, noting that the increase is primarily meant for current expenses. This funding aims to improve existing sports infrastructure, ensuring that the larger federations allocate significant portions of their resources towards enhancing their facilities, including notable venues such as the Reales Tamarindos stadium in Manabí, the Los Chasquis athletic track in Pichincha, and the Olympic pool in Azuay.

Out of the total investment, $41.8 million will be directed towards formative sports programs, while $7.4 million is reserved for high-performance athletics. Ibáñez stresses the importance of focusing on budgetary support for travel and competitions, indicating a shift in priorities towards achieving better outcomes in competitive sports. He argues that the measure of a successful high-performance plan should not merely be the number of users but rather the effectiveness of resource allocation to achieve specific athletic goals.

The increased funding reflects the government's commitment to boost Ecuador's sports scene, especially in light of upcoming events. The Deputy Minister's emphasis on infrastructure improvements suggests a long-term vision for sustainability in sports development, aiming to foster a more competitive environment for athletes. This initiative not only signifies a financial investment but also reinforces the strategic importance of sports in national identity and pride as Ecuador heads into a significant year for its athletes and sporting achievements.