Ecuador Roundup: Olympic suspension warning, Colombia talks, Messi mania

Ecuador risks Olympic suspension amid dispute between COE and sports authorities

Ecuador’s Olympic Committee (COE) warned that the country is close to facing a possible Olympic suspension due to alleged state interference in sports governance. The alert follows a conflict between the COE and Fedeguayas, after government pressure linked to leadership disputes within the federation. COE officials argue that state involvement violates the principle of autonomy required by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). They cautioned that continued interference could lead to sanctions, including exclusion from international competitions. Authorities have not ruled out dialogue, but tensions remain unresolved.

Ecuador reviews Colombia’s account of foreign ministers’ meeting

Ecuador’s government said it is analysing Colombia’s version of a recent bilateral meeting between foreign ministers, which outlined commitments on security cooperation, energy integration and tariff issues. Quito stressed the importance of coordination on cross-border security, particularly in the fight against organised crime. Officials highlighted energy collaboration and trade as shared priorities, while underscoring Ecuador’s interest in concrete follow-up mechanisms. The statement reflects cautious diplomacy as both countries seek to balance cooperation with national interests.

Messi sparks excitement as Inter Miami arrives in Guayaquil

Argentine football star Lionel Messi was enthusiastically welcomed by fans in Guayaquil ahead of a friendly match between Inter Miami and Barcelona SC, dubbed the “Match of History”. Supporters gathered outside the Oro Verde Hotel, praising Messi’s legacy and expressing excitement at seeing him play in Ecuador. Authorities deployed a special security operation due to the scale of public interest. The match, part of Inter Miami’s South American tour, is expected to feature players such as Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, drawing significant attention nationwide.

Prison authority cites improvements at Penitenciaría del Litoral amid health concerns

Ecuador’s prison authority SNAI said it is implementing improvements in food provision and infrastructure at the Penitenciaría del Litoral following reports of sanitary problems. Officials claimed measures are underway to address hygiene, overcrowding and basic services at the facility. The prison has been at the centre of repeated crises, highlighting structural weaknesses in the penitentiary system. SNAI insisted that reforms are ongoing, though concerns from inmates’ relatives and human rights groups persist.

Scientist documents Ecuador’s butterflies after three decades of research

Entomologist Keith Willmott has spent more than 30 years studying Ecuador’s butterflies, documenting species with transparent wings and others affected by forest fires. His work combines field research and conservation science, contributing to global understanding of biodiversity in Ecuador’s ecosystems. Willmott has highlighted how habitat loss and climate change threaten butterfly populations. His research underscores Ecuador’s role as a biodiversity hotspot and the importance of long-term scientific study for conservation efforts.