Cuba reports $36 million in sports losses due to U.S. blockade

The United States economic blockade has caused significant financial damage to Cuba's sports sector. According to a report from the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the blockade resulted in losses totaling $36,271,620 for sports in the last year.

These financial impacts manifest through denied visas, lack of equipment, and inability to access modern technology. The inclusion of the Banco Financiero Internacional (BFI) on restricted entities lists since January 2020 has further complicated matters, as foreign banks often refuse to process transactions with Cuba. This forces the use of intermediaries, increasing contract costs by 5% to 10%.

Specific losses include $20.3 million due to transaction difficulties by the end of 2025, uncollectible services, and difficulties in paying memberships to the World Anti-Doping Agency. The restrictions also impact the ability of athletes and technicians to be contracted in foreign clubs.