Ecuadorian Official Downplays Role of Betting Houses Amidst Football Corruption Concerns
QUITO, ECUADOR – September 22, 2025 – Amidst growing scrutiny over the influence of sports betting on Ecuadorian football, legislator Miguel Ángel loor has publicly minimized the impact of betting houses, suggesting broader systemic issues are at fault for criminal activity. Loor’s statement comes following the September 19th murder of Jonathan ‘Speedy’ González, a Serie B soccer player, who, days before his death, had reportedly received extortion threats linked to sports bets.
Loor articulated his position on Twitter,stating,”we close the banks as there moves the money that ’causes’ the criminals,we close the TV channels because they ’cause’ the criminals to hack the signal,we close the cars dealers because they ’cause’ the pillos to steal them or close to those who sell…”
The case of González has reignited debate regarding the pervasive presence of betting companies within Ecuadorian football. The Ecuadorian championship’s main sponsor is a betting house, adn more than half of the country’s clubs have similar sponsorships.
Concerns extend beyond the González case. Players David Cabezas and anthony Bedoya recently left El Nacional citing “extrafutbolistic reasons,” reportedly linked to calls and uncomfortable situations related to sports betting.
Allegations of match-fixing have also surfaced in the Serie B tournament, with social media users pointing to suspicious plays and unexpected results. A particularly scrutinized match occurred in March 2025, when Gualaceo defeated chacaritas 3-2. Screenshots circulated on social media from betting groups appeared to invite wagers on that exact scoreline, suggesting a pre-arranged outcome. An audio recording allegedly linking former footballer Nelson Soliz to the fixed match also emerged.