A significant legislative change is set to take effect in Ecuador on February 11, 2026, with the enactment of the new Sports Law, approved by the National Assembly on December 19, 2025. This law alters the duration of terms for elected officials within sports federations and clubs, thereby impacting the governance structures that regulate sports organizations in the country.

The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) has scheduled a Congress for March 17 to facilitate elections for the term 2027-2030. Francisco Egas, who has been in charge of the FEF since 2019, intends to run for president for a third consecutive term. However, due to the stipulations of the newly passed law, it appears he may not have the legal basis to pursue this candidacy, raising questions about compliance with the new regulations and the future governance of the FEF.

The situation evokes concerns about the implications for Egas’s leadership and the potential for legal disputes if he attempts to challenge the new ruling. Furthermore, Egas is reportedly looking to FIFA for support or protection, which could complicate the relationship between national and international sports governance. The outcome of the upcoming elections and Egas's legal status will significantly influence Ecuadorian football's direction in the coming years.