Link to Article: The US Ambassador in Ecuador Affirms that Soccer Clubs are Used to Launder Money
Michael Fitzpatrick, an American ambassador to Ecuador, identified a new avenue of corruption in Ecuador through Ecuadorian soccer clubs. Money laundering schemes in teams apart from the Ecuadorian Pro League have surfaced. Fitzpatrick stated that money laundering practices have extended “To the national passion, soccer.” At an event commemorating an anniversary of the United States Convention against Corruption he also said that, “The corrupt don’t always move chips in the public sector.” The allegations were denied by Pro League president Miguel Angel Loor. Nevertheless clubs are now required to report to the Financial Analysis Unit. With the improvement Fitzpatrick continues the fight against money laundering challenging the National Assembly to regulate and confront organized crime.
The money laundering crisis in Ecuador will negatively affect the Ecuadorian economy as well as the different organizations involved. Such as the Pro League soccer league. Ending the money laundering crisis starts with the fight against corruption within the Ecuadorian government. There is a positive outlook for the future, optimistically, Fitzpatrick said, “If the corrupt and the drug traffickers – and their political and economic protectors – know that they are really not gonna earn any money with their illegal actions, they are not going to take the risks.” Perhaps the underlying tone of the quote is that there is a level of uneducation. Possibly an issue that can have steps taken to resolve just by educating people of the risks and rewards of the situation. The hope is economic prosperity for Ecuador and a positive outcome of the situation. Corruption can lead to economic decay and have negative impacts for the beautiful game in this situation.
Within levels of analysis Ecuadorian president Daniel Noboa could have a say in the ending of corruption in Ecuador. He could use his platform and influence to expose the corrupt groups and keep people accountable. Hopefully putting a stop to dishonest practices. Need to ensure that public sector employees act in public interest. Recognize and reform. If these steps are taken Noboa in relation with Fitzpatrick could cause corruption issues to be minimized. Inturn solving the money laundering issue within the pro league.