President Mulino stated: “Their classification is a great demonstration of their effort; they shone and this places them among the highest-ranking countries that will compete in the World Cup. Part of the players and technical staff of the National Football Team, which qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026, were received at the Palace of Las Garzas by President José Raúl Mulino, who highlighted their tenacity, commitment, and effort in keeping Panama's name high. Erick Davis, Cristian “El Fulo” Martínez, Alberto “Negrito” Quintero, Edgardo Fariña, and Jovani Welch, on behalf of their teammates, were congratulated for their effort on the field, after qualifying undefeated following six matches of the final stage, results that have allowed them to secure a spot in the World Cup as the leaders of their group and the only representative from Central America for this event. Mulino also highlighted the positive cascading effect of this classification on the economy, by internationalizing the national team and Panama's name through football. Manuel Arias, president of the Panamanian Football Federation (Fepafut), highlighted the achievements of Panamanian footballers who in the latest editions of world championships in this sport have managed to qualify the men's teams (U-17, U-20, and Senior), while in the case of the women's teams, Panama will participate for the first time in the FIFA Futsal World Cup. Among them, he mentioned the Juan Díaz High Performance Center, the venue where the National Team held its last training sessions. Additionally, he highlighted the support of all Panamanians who filled the Rommel Fernández Stadium and took to the streets to enjoy this milestone after, following the 2018 Russia World Cup, reaching their second participation in the world's biggest football tournament. He noted that currently a little more than 170 Panamanian footballers play abroad. He emphasized that in these types of competitions, where a World Cup spot is at stake, no team gives up or yields space; it must be earned with victories. Likewise, he highlighted the government's effort in building new sports facilities for the athletes' service. Meanwhile, Thomas Christiansen, the team's strategist, expressed that there is nothing better than football to unite a country, and that he eagerly awaits the group draw to be held in the United States on December 5, and that both players and technical staff will prepare to give their best performance at the World Cup. He also emphasized the need to maintain the growth of Panamanian football and the development of new infrastructure. This complex will be delivered next January. “Negrito” Quintero expressed his satisfaction at being part of the group of players who are giving this moment of joy to the Panamanian people and highlighted the strength of each of his teammates. Also attending were Engineer Rubén Cárdenas, a member of the National Selections Commission, the team doctor Engie Mitre, as well as part of the technical staff. For the presidency, Vice Minister Virna Luque was present. They gave a tank of happiness to the entire Panamanian people.
Panamanian President Congratulates National Football Team on World Cup 2026 Qualification
Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino met with football players who successfully qualified for the 2026 World Cup. He praised their effort, commitment, and positive impact on the country's economy. The coaching staff and football federation leadership were also present.
