Ecuador declares public holiday after historic win over Germany

Gonzalo Plata celebrates after scoring Ecuadors match winner. (Photo: CONMBEL)

By Erick Kariuki
Friday, June 26, 2026

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The holiday will apply to both the public and private sectors and will not be recoverable, meaning employees will not be required to make up the missed working day.

Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa has officially declared Friday, June 26, 2026, a nationwide public holiday following the national football team's historic 2-1 victory over Germany at the FIFA World Cup.

In an official communication, the Presidency announced that the decision had been formalised through Executive Decree No. 431, allowing Ecuadorians countrywide to celebrate what the government described as "a moment that fills the nation with pride and unity."

The holiday will apply to both the public and private sectors and will not be recoverable, meaning employees will not be required to make up the missed working day.

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According to the decree, the work suspension applies throughout Ecuador.

However, essential services, including healthcare, drinking water, electricity, firefighting, banking, and air, land and river transport terminals will continue operating with minimum staffing to ensure uninterrupted public service.

In its official statement, the National Government praised the Ecuadorian national team for "raising the name of Ecuador high" and delivering "a joy that transcends the football pitch".

The Presidency said the paid holiday is intended to allow citizens to celebrate a landmark achievement that has united the country.

Thousands of Ecuadorian fans came out to support the team against Germany. (Photo: La Tri/X)

The decree further assigns its implementation to the Ministry of Production, Foreign Trade and Investment and the Ministry of Government, in coordination with other relevant state institutions. It took effect immediately upon President Noboa's signature on June 25, 2026.

The declaration sparked celebrations across Ecuador, marking one of the country's most memorable football achievements and underscoring the significance the government has attached to the national team's qualification for the World Cup Round of 32.