Ecuador honors football legend Christian Benítez on 13th anniversary

On 29 July 2026, Ecuador marked the 13th anniversary of the death of striker Christian “Chucho” Benítez, who collapsed in Doha, Qatar on 29 July 2013 after suffering abdominal pain and a cardiac arrest linked to acute peritonitis. The former forward, who played for clubs including El Nacional, Santos Laguna, Birmingham City, América and Al Jaish, and represented Ecuador at the 2006 World Cup, is remembered as one of the nation’s most beloved footballers.

The Ecuadorian national team displayed a tribute photo titled “Chucho Eterno”. Former clubs also posted commemorations, with El Nacional publishing an illustration of Benítez in his 2006 league‑title shirt and Birmingham City issuing a statement recalling his time in the Premier League. Fans and former teammates highlighted his record of over 130 club goals and his impact on both domestic and international football.