Rommel Pacheco defends CONADE management amid criticism

Rommel Pacheco, head of Mexico's National Commission for Physical Culture and Sport (CONADE), has responded to allegations of mismanagement and lack of transparency. The controversy arose after Olympic medalist and PAN deputy Paola Espinosa accused Pacheco of repeating the irregular practices and opacity seen during Ana Guevara's administration. Espinosa specifically criticized the failure to channel resources to the delegation competing in the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar.

Pacheco addressed these claims on Fox Sports Radio, stating that all budget requests from the Mexican Olympic Committee (COM) have been addressed, including a recent request for 11 million pesos. He noted that administrative processes require time for approval. To ensure athletes are supported, Pacheco announced that those traveling to Dakar 2026 will receive a 12-month scholarship to continue their training, asserting that resources go directly to the athletes.

Pacheco also responded to tensions with María José Alcalá, head of the COM, regarding the funding for the Dakar delegation. He called for an end to controversies that “dirty the sport,” stating his intention is to work in a team and focus on the successes of Mexican sports rather than political disputes.