Liga de Quito to debut historic Copa Libertadores champion patch

Liga de Quito is set to debut a new historical patch in the upcoming Copa Libertadores, a distinction awarded to clubs that have won the prestigious tournament. The Ecuadorian team, champions of the 2008 edition, will be the only representative from Ecuador to wear this special emblem during the round of 16.

CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation, introduced this commemorative patch to honor the legacy of Libertadores champions and highlight their achievements. Each patch is uniquely designed to represent the history of the institution, including the years they achieved "Eternal Glory." These emblems will be worn by historical champions throughout the final phase of the 2026 Libertadores as part of a strategy to strengthen the tournament's identity and historical value.

Previously, Copa Libertadores champions used a standard gold patch indicating the number of titles. The new design offers a personalized emblem reflecting each club's unique identity. For Liga de Quito, the patch will be white with blue and red details, their traditional colors. It will also display the number "1" for their single Copa Libertadores title and the year "2008," when they defeated Fluminense in the final at the Maracanã stadium.

Liga Deportiva Universitaria remains the sole Ecuadorian club to have won the Copa Libertadores. This victory grants them access to the new CONMEBOL recognition. Although Independiente del Valle will also compete in the round of 16, they will not be able to use this patch as they have not won the Copa Libertadores. Liga de Quito will face Mirassol in the first leg of their round of 16 match.