Budget Cut Leads to Cancellation of Chile's 2026 National and Paralympic Games

The decision by the Ministry of Sport to cancel the 2026 National and National Paralympic Games, following a directive from the Ministry of Finance, is a deeply disappointing blow to Chilean athletes and the spirit of national competition. This budget cut, amounting to $5.7 billion pesos, directly impacts the development and visibility of sports within our country. While we understand the fiscal realities the government faces, the elimination of funding for such a significant event raises serious questions about our priorities.

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The Ministry of Sport executed the budget cut instructed by the Treasury, a measure by the Government of José Antonio Kast that led to the cancellation of the National and National Paralympic Games 2026.

The justification that funds will be redirected to support athletes in the upcoming South American Games, while seemingly practical, overlooks the crucial role the National Games play in identifying and nurturing talent across all regions of Chile. These games serve as a vital platform, a stepping stone for many athletes aiming for international success. To sacrifice this national event, which has been a cornerstone since 2013, in favor of a biennial cadence that prioritizes years without major international competitions, feels shortsighted.

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The reduction of $5.7 billion from the Ministry of Sport, of which the Comptroller General has already taken note and corresponds to three percent of the portfolio's annual budget, included the entirety of the amounts for the aforementioned sporting event.

From our perspective at Cooperativa, we believe that investing in national sporting events is as important as supporting athletes on the international stage. The National and Paralympic Games foster a sense of national pride, encourage widespread participation, and provide invaluable experience. While the Ministry of Sport points to other budget reductions, including those for infrastructure and international events like the Special Olympics World Games, the cancellation of our own national games sends a disheartening message about the value placed on domestic sports development. We must find a balance that allows both national and international sporting endeavors to thrive.

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We will prioritize other expenses, such as direct contributions to athletes for the South American Games in Santa Fe, to be held this September.