Ecuador’s sports sector is currently grappling with significant challenges related to professionalism, participant development, and governance across elite and Olympic sports. Over recent decades, the nation has witnessed various institutional issues, leading to numerous questions regarding its football and Olympic presence. Despite the positive outcomes achieved in the 2025 Bolivarian Games, where Ecuador secured 133 medals and began its journey towards the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, the sports landscape is marred by the arrogance and power struggles within its governing bodies.

The crisis in Ecuadorian sports is particularly evident within the Ecuadorian Olympic Committee (COE) and the Guayas Sports Federation (Fedeguayas), where power struggles ignited during the elections of the current COE board led by Jorge Delgado. These internal conflicts have not only affected the governance and structure of sports organizations but have also raised concerns about the ethical behaviors of those in power, leading to a ripple effect throughout the sporting community. This institutional fragility threatens to undermine the success achieved by athletes and coaches who work tirelessly to compete on international stages.

The situation calls for urgent reform and innovative solutions to restore integrity and trust within Ecuador’s sports organizations. Stakeholders must prioritize professionalism and transparency to ensure sustainable development within the sports sector. With the looming prospect of the Olympics, the focus should be on unifying efforts, combating arrogance, and shifting the narrative from internal power struggles to collective progress that benefits athletes and the nation as a whole.