Mourning in Ecuador first division footballer dies after traffic accident
Marcos Olmedo a player for Mushuc Runa, lost his life in a crash in Esmeraldas
Ecuadorian football is going through a period of mourning after the death of footballer Marcos Olmedo, a member of Mushuc Runa in the first division, was confirmed. The young 26-year-old player died this Sunday in a traffic accident that occurred in the province of Esmeraldas, in the north of the country and bordering Colombia.
The news shook the local sport and quickly generated messages of condolences. “It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of our beloved player Marcos Olmedo. Our most sincere condolences to his family and loved ones in this time of grief. Rest in peace, Marcos,” Mushuc Runa posted on its official X account.
Career and reactions of Ecuadorian soccer
The Ecuadorian Football Federation (FEF) also expressed its regret and recalled that Olmedo defended historic jerseys such as Aucas, America de Quito, Macara, Liga de Quito and El Nacional, the club with which he won the Copa Ecuador title in 2024. “We express our deepest condolences to his family, his teammates and all those who are part of Mushuc Runa, as well as to the country's sports community,” the organization said in a statement.
The accident occurred in the town of Quininde, when two vehicles collided on a highway in the area. According to data from ECU-911, in addition to Olmedo, two other men between the ages of 30 and 34 died. Traffic authorities and police officers are working at the scene to clarify the circumstances of the crash.
The footballer had been one of Mushuc Runa's most notable additions this season, after shining with El Nacional. His contribution was key in the group stage of the Copa Sudamericana, where the Ambato club became the surprise hit by achieving the highest score of all the participating teams.
The player's death also prompted displays of solidarity from figures and teams. "How sad. My condolences to the family, friends and teammates of Marcos Olmedo. May he rest in peace," wrote Miguel Angel Loor, president of Liga Pro, on X.
El Nacional, one of the most significant clubs in Olmedo's career, paid him a heartfelt tribute: "Today we bid farewell with deep sorrow to a warrior who marked our history and who returned us to glory with a star after 18 years of waiting. His effort, dedication, and love for this shirt will remain forever in the memory of the Creole fans."