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Thousands March in Panama to Oppose U.S. Troop Deal and Copper Mine Project

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Thousands March in Panama to Oppose U.S. Troop Deal and Copper Mine Project

Thousands of students and workers marched on Tuesday in Panama City to protest against an increased U.S. military presence near the interoceanic canal, the potential reopening of an open-pit mine, and recent reforms to the social security system. Students, teachers, laborers, healthcare workers, and environmentalists voiced opposition to an agreement signed last March between the right-wing government of José Raúl Mulino and the United States, which allows the deployment of U.S. troops in areas adjacent to the Panama Canal.

The United States dismantled its military bases in Panama when it handed over control of the waterway to the Panamanian people on December 31, 1999, in accordance with treaties signed in 1977. “Since Mulino took office [in July 2024], everything has gone to hell,” said 27-year-old university student Isaac Alba.

Protesters are also demanding that Mulino abandon his attempt to reopen a Canadian-owned open-pit copper mine that was halted by the courts in 2023, as well as plans for a dam on a river to provide more water to the canal — a project that would require relocating hundreds of rural families.

“The people are joining the fight in a united effort” to repeal the law that reformed Social Security in March and to reject the agreement “with the gringos,” said Saúl Méndez, leader of the construction workers’ union Suntracs. The agreement with Washington was signed amid tensions following threats by U.S. President Donald Trump to take back control of the Panama Canal, arguing that it was under Chinese influence.

“The reopening of the mine and the dam project on the Indio River must also be suspended,” Méndez added. On Monday, Mulino stated that the country “does not grow through strikes” and that he would “bear all the political cost” of the discontent among many Panamanians. “I will continue to tackle sensitive issues that need to be addressed in this country,” he added.

The protests and partial strikes began three weeks ago but gained massive momentum this Tuesday with the participation of new groups, including healthcare professionals. Although the recent Social Security reform did not raise the retirement age, as Mulino had initially proposed, unions argue that it puts workers’ pensions at risk.

How Exchange Rate Changes Affect Costa Rica’s Tourism

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How Exchange Rate Changes Affect Costa Rica’s Tourism

As we all are aware Costa Rica’s rainforests and beaches draw countless visitors each year, but the strengthening colón now raises costs for dollar-paying tourists. Recently, the dollar exchange rate stood at ₡499.80, down from ₡535.02 in June 2024, giving travelers to our country fewer colones per dollar. This increases prices for hotels, guided tours, and meals, straining vacation budgets.

Analysts forecast fluctuations through 2025, with rates likely holding steady or rising to ₡540, driven by fewer tourists, export challenges, and US trade policies, requiring travelers to plan carefully.

Since mid-2022, when the dollar reached ₡680, the colón has gained value, hitting ₡499 by April 2025, a 25% drop in dollar purchasing power. A ₡25,000 surf lesson at local schools, which cost $36.76 then, now gets $50.02. A slight rate increase from ₡500 to ₡511 between March and April offered minimal relief, but the colón’s strength, fueled by earlier tourism and investment inflows, keeps expenses high.

A 15% decline in visitors during the 2024-2025 peak season, alongside US tariffs introduced in March 2025, reduced dollar availability, pushing the rate higher. Last November, holiday crowds and local colón demand lowered it to ₡505.41, but travelers face ongoing uncertainty.

Analysts provide varied predictions affecting trip planning. Some expect a stable ₡510 to ₡520 range through 2025, keeping costs consistent, though September and October could see higher rates as businesses buy dollars for holiday inventories. Others anticipate ₡515 to ₡540, or up to ₡545, easing expenses for dollar-holders.

An expert attributes recent changes to global pressures, including US tariffs adding a 10% levy on Costa Rican exports, but predicts stabilization at ₡520 to ₡530 by year-end, offering travelers some degree of clarity at least.

The stronger colón impacts tourists directly. A plate of gallo pinto at local sodas, typically ₡1,999 to ₡3,499 ($4-$7 at ₡499.80), once cost $2.94-$5.15 at ₡680, now hitting up to $7 for budget-conscious visitors. Hotels and operators using dollars often maintain prices, but local businesses charging in colones demand more when converted.

With a 15% drop in tourist numbers, the industry earns less, reducing discounts and special offers, leaving fewer deals for travelers. Imported souvenirs or foreign dishes provide no savings, as their prices align with dollars, not local import advantages.

The central bank focuses on low inflation, down sharply since 2023, using high interest rates to stabilize the economy, which strengthens the colón and keeps travel costs elevated for foreigners. US trade policies and the tourism decline create risks, potentially cutting available tours or services if operators scale back.

Travelers can save by booking in quieter yet wetter months like September, when demand dips, or choosing family-run lodges and restaurants less tied to dollar pricing. With the exchange rate reshaping Costa Rica’s tourism industry, visitors need strategic budgeting to enjoy visiting our country without going broke.

Costa Rica President’s State of Nation Address Sparks Controversy

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Costa Rica President’s State of Nation Address Sparks Controversy

Costa Rican President Rodrigo Chaves delivered his third State of the Nation Address to the Legislative Assembly, employing an unconventional approach that blended multimedia presentations with sharp criticism of public institutions and political opponents. The speech, which outlined achievements in security, education, employment, and economic growth, drew polarized reactions, with supporters praising its boldness and critics decrying its omissions and confrontational tone.

Chaves used videos to highlight his administration’s accomplishments, claiming Costa Rica is advancing in critical areas. He emphasized a drop in unemployment to 6.6% and 7% during the moving quarters of July–September and August–November 2024, alongside the arrival of 2.9 million tourists in 2024. He also underscored progress in neglected coastal regions, framing his government as one that “delivers, builds, doesn’t steal, and doesn’t slacken.” However, international tourist arrivals remain below pre-pandemic levels, with a decline since September 2024, a point Chaves did not address.

The president’s 13-page security report touted measures like Operation Sovereignty, which scans all containers at Moín port, and a historic police wage increase in July 2024. Yet, it omitted the record-high homicide rates of 907 in 2023 and 879 in 2024, translating to 17.2 per 100,000 residents. Critics, including opposition lawmakers, highlighted this discrepancy, noting that 41.8% of Costa Ricans in a 2024 survey viewed insecurity as the nation’s top issue, up from 13.3% in 2022.

Education and healthcare received minimal attention. Chaves briefly mentioned cultural initiatives but sidestepped the educational crisis, marked by deficient math and reading comprehension skills in national assessments and chronic underfunding. In healthcare, he glossed over the social security system’s backlog, with 190,076 individuals awaiting surgery as of 2025, facing average wait times of over a year.

Chaves’ rhetoric targeted perceived elites and institutions, accusing them of obstructing progress. He claimed his policies have shifted protests from “the poor” to “the rich,” describing opponents as a privileged “old political caste” unsettled by his reforms. This drew sharp rebuke from Rodrigo Arias, President of the Legislative Assembly, who criticized Chaves for attacking independent institutions, the media, and civil society. Arias argued that the president’s tone undermines governance, pointing to a disconnect between Chaves’ optimistic narrative and the country’s challenges.

Opposition lawmakers disrupted the address with protest signs focusing on gender-based violence, a pressing issue in 2025. Signs read, “Shame on leading the most violent year for women,” and “Women’s lives matter. No more violence!” These reflected public frustration over rising femicides and violence against women, which Chaves did not directly address.

Social media posts echoed the polarized sentiment. One user described Chaves’ tone as “defiant” and lacking self-criticism, while another criticized the administration’s failure to address security, education, and healthcare crises effectively.

Chaves’ address also referenced controversial prison reforms, inspired by El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele, including plans for a new 5,000-inmate facility and restrictions on inmate visits. These measures, announced days before the speech, have sparked hunger strikes and protests, with critics warning of human rights violations.

Chaves’ speech highlighted his style of leadership, mixing bold claims with selective facts. Supporters see him challenging old elites, but critics say he ignores key problems like violence, education, and healthcare, widening rifts before next years elections.

Costa Rica Launches Drone Program to Monitor Crocodile Populations

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Costa Rica Launches Drone Program to Monitor Crocodile Populations

In Costa Rica, the exact number of American crocodiles (Crocodylus acutus) remains unknown, despite signs of population recovery in recent decades. To address this gap, the International Institute for Conservation and Wildlife Management (Icomvis) at the National University (UNA), in collaboration with the School of Topography, Cadastre, and Geodesy, has launched a pioneering drone-based program to count and monitor crocodile populations across the country’s rivers and estuaries.

Traditional monitoring methods involve researchers navigating rivers at night, using flashlights to spot the reflective eyes of crocodiles to estimate their numbers and sizes. These surveys are risky, costly, and labor-intensive, requiring specialized equipment and trained personnel. The new drone initiative aims to overcome these challenges by capturing daytime aerial images for safer and more efficient data collection.

“We must establish specific areas to capture information during the day and then process the images. This allows us to count the crocodiles, map their distribution in the river, and estimate their population structure by size,” said Laura Porras, a researcher at Icomvis-UNA. She emphasized that developing a standardized protocol is critical, as the approach is novel both in Costa Rica and globally.

Standardizing drone flights involves determining optimal conditions, such as the time of day to account for sunlight reflection on water, flight heights that avoid disturbing wildlife, and weather factors like rain or wind. “All these parameters will be outlined in the protocol so that authorities, such as the Ministry of Environment and Energy, can use it for monitoring in various regions,” Porras explained. Lessons from earlier drone surveys, such as a 2017 study in Costa Rica and a 2018 West African project, are informing these efforts, with flight altitudes of 50–100 meters being considered to balance detectability and minimal disturbance.

The program responds to growing concerns about human-crocodile conflicts, particularly in regions like Guanacaste, where habitat overlap has increased due to agricultural and urban expansion. Accurate population data will guide management strategies to reduce conflicts while supporting conservation. The American crocodile, listed as vulnerable by the IUCN, plays a vital role as a keystone species, influencing ecosystems through selective predation, nutrient recycling, and maintaining wetland habitats during droughts.

Crocodiles face threats from habitat loss, water pollution, and illegal hunting, which jeopardize biodiversity and ecosystem stability. By providing precise data on population size and distribution, the drone program hopes to strengthen conservation efforts and ensure the long-term survival of this ecologically critical species.

Canadian Government Issues Travel Advisory for Costa Rica

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Canadian Government Issues Travel Advisory for Costa Rica

The Canadian government has issued a travel advisory for Costa Rica, urging citizens to exercise a high degree of caution due to increasing crime concerns. Released on May 3, the advisory highlights risks that travelers should be aware of when visiting the country, a favored destination for Canadians drawn to its beaches, rainforests, and eco-tourism opportunities.

The advisory points to frequent petty crimes, particularly pickpocketing and purse snatching, which are prevalent in urban centers and popular tourist areas. These incidents often target visitors who may be less familiar with their surroundings. Beyond petty theft, the Canadian government notes a risk of more serious crimes, including violent incidents linked to drug trafficking in certain regions. Fraud, such as credit card scams and overcharging, also poses a threat to travelers, especially in busy tourist hubs.

To stay safe, the advisory recommends securing valuables, avoiding displays of wealth, and remaining vigilant, especially at night or in less crowded areas. Travelers are advised to stick to well-lit, populated areas and use reputable transportation services. The Canadian government also suggests registering with the Registration of Canadians Abroad service to receive emergency updates and assistance if needed.

While Costa Rica remains a welcoming destination, the advisory underscores the need for heightened awareness to ensure a safe visit. Local authorities have not yet commented on the advisory, but tourism officials may highlight ongoing efforts to enhance safety for visitors. Canadians planning trips are encouraged to check the Canadian government’s Travel Advice and Advisories website for the latest guidance and to take practical steps to protect themselves while visiting.

American Airlines Adds More Chicago-Costa Rica Flights for High Season

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American Airlines Adds More Chicago-Costa Rica Flights for High Season

American Airlines has announced plans to increase its number of flights to Costa Rica from Chicago for their 2025-26 winter travel season, aligning with our peak tourism time. Starting November 2, the airline will resume daily flights from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to San José, reviving a previously operated route. Service to Liberia will increase to daily flights from Chicago starting December 18, up from weekly operations. This expansion doubles American’s capacity to Costa Rica from Chicago, meeting anticipated demand for travel here during the high season from December to April.

American’s expansion extends to other Central American destinations from Chicago. Starting November 6, Guatemala City will see up to three weekly flights. For those who travel to Mexico as well, the airline will also increase frequencies to Mexican destinations, including Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, and Los Cabos, with some routes offering up to three daily flights. The San José route will operate year-round, while Liberia’s daily flights will run through the high season. Tickets will be available starting today through American’s website or mobile app.

American is joined by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, which we wrote about earlier, with increased flights from Amsterdam to San José to five weekly services for the 2025-26 winter season. This reflects growing European demand for Costa Rica, complementing the U.S. market, which accounted for 60% of the 2.9 million tourists in 2024. No other U.S. carriers, such as Delta, United, or JetBlue, have announced specific increases to Costa Rica from the USA for this period, though Delta is expanding its Latin American network with new routes to other destinations.

American will operate over 2,350 weekly flights from Chicago to Central America and Mexico, serving more destinations in the region than any other carrier during the winter season. Costa Rica’s tourism, a key economic driver, expects these additional flights to drive increased interest in coming here, despite the rising travel costs.

Costa Rica’s Security Crisis Threatens Tourism in Key Destinations

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Costa Rica’s Security Crisis Threatens Tourism in Key Destinations

A report prepared by the Legislative Assembly, cited by local media outlet El Observador last week, concluded that rising insecurity in Costa Rica is undermining tourism activity, a critical economic sector contributing 8.2% to GDP. If Costa Rican authorities do not take immediate action, the impact could worsen, compromising tourist arrivals and the country’s global reputation. The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) reported a 13.8% decline in tourist arrivals from September 2024 to March 2025, with a 7% drop in February 2025 alone, driven by safety concerns.

After eight months of work, the Special Tourism Commission of Congress issued a majority report documenting a significant increase in criminal activity and violence in key regions. In 2024, Costa Rica recorded 880 homicides, with 225 in 2025 to date, including 66 in San José, 45 in Limón, and 34 in Puntarenas, according to the Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ). Over 6,300 tourist-related crimes, primarily thefts and assaults, were reported in 2024.

The report identified “critical areas” in five provinces: San José’s central region, known for petty theft; La Fortuna in San Carlos, Alajuela; Tamarindo and Playas del Coco in Guanacaste, facing an 18% homicide rise; Puerto Viejo and Cahuita in Limón, hubs for drug-related violence; and Puntarenas Centro, Cóbano, Jacó, and Quepos in Puntarenas, plagued by robberies.

Five main factors aggravate insecurity in these tourist destinations. First, clandestine parties and illegal commerce, often linked to drug trafficking by cartels like Colombia’s Clan del Golfo, fuel violence and public disorder. Second, security forces lack sufficient personnel, equipment, and funding, with Costa Rica’s absence of a military exacerbating challenges. Third, inadequate video surveillance and patrols hinder monitoring. Fourth, gentrification—displacement of local communities by foreign investment—raises living costs, weakens social cohesion, and limits formal employment. Finally, socioeconomic issues, including poverty, unemployment, and limited educational opportunities, drive criminal activity.

The impact on tourism is severe. Since September, a 7.2% drop in North American visitors and 11.4% in European arrivals have strained coastal communities, with Quepos and Nosara reporting a 20% decline in tourism-related jobs. The sector, generating $5.434 billion in 2024, faces a projected 15–20% drop in arrivals by late 2025, per the National Tourism Chamber (CANATUR). International travel advisories, including the U.S. Embassy’s Level 2 Advisory (December 2024) and Canada’s March 2025 alert, cite rising crime, amplifying negative perceptions.

The Legislative Assembly warned that “loss of competitiveness due to security concerns and erosion of Costa Rica’s peaceful reputation may take decades to recover.” CANATUR noted that 62% of U.S. tourists cited safety concerns as a reason for choosing other destinations.

However, Tourism Minister William Rodríguez countered that no evidence links insecurity to declining tourism(?). He claimed the ICT’s safety perception metrics remain stable. This stance contrasts with CANATUR’s concerns and international advisories urging caution in areas like Cahuita and Cóbano.

Positive steps offer hope. In 2024, CANATUR and Public Security signed a cooperation agreement to enhance tourist safety through joint patrols and training. European airlines, including KLM and Air France, are increasing flights for the 2025-2026 high season, signaling confidence in Costa Rica’s appeal. Yet, with reduced air connectivity—8% fewer seats at Juan Santamaría Airport and 19% at Daniel Oduber Airport— the tourism industry here urges stronger action to restore Costa Rica’s reputation as a safe destination.

Nicaragua to Leave UNESCO After Press Freedom Prize Awarded to La Prensa

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Nicaragua to Leave UNESCO After Press Freedom Prize Awarded to La Prensa

Nicaragua announced Sunday its withdrawal from UNESCO, calling it “unacceptable” that the organization awarded the Press Freedom Prize to La Prensa, a staunch critic of the government of Daniel Ortega and Rosario Murillo, whose journalists now work from exile. The announcement of Nicaragua’s withdrawal from UNESCO, which will become effective on December 31, 2026, comes amid growing concerns over press freedom in the country, which has fallen to 172nd out of 180 in the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) rankings.

In a letter sent to the Director-General of the organization, Audrey Azoulay, and published Sunday in pro-government Nicaraguan media, Foreign Minister Valdrack Jaentschke condemned what he called the “unacceptable and inadmissible action by UNESCO.” “It is profoundly shameful that UNESCO is a promoter and evidently an accomplice” of “a media outlet that has encouraged” U.S. “interference” and “interventions,” Jaentschke wrote.

In a statement Azoulay expressed regret over the decision, “which will deprive the Nicaraguan people of the benefits of cooperation in areas such as education and culture.” On Saturday, UNESCO awarded its Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize to La Prensa for “bringing the truth to the people of Nicaragua,” despite the “repression” and “exile” of its journalists, according to the award jury.

The prize enraged the Ortega government, which ruled from 1985 to 1990 and has been in power again since 2007 alongside his wife Rosario Murillo, designated as “co-president” this past February. In a statement, the government called the award “shameful” and labeled the newspaper a “diabolical spawn of anti-Nicaraguan betrayal.”

Greater strength to the recognition

La Prensa, founded in 1926, ceased printing in 2021 amid arrests of journalists and confiscation of its assets. It now operates online with staff in exile in Costa Rica, the United States, Mexico, Spain, and Germany. From exile in the United States, La Prensa‘s manager Juan Lorenzo Holmann stated on X (formerly Twitter) that the government’s “rage” “gives greater strength to the recognition” of the country’s oldest newspaper.

The government’s decision was criticized by exiled opposition groups. The Movement for Civil and Political Rights (Avanza) said it “will further isolate the country and worsen the human rights crisis.” Under UNESCO’s constitution, Nicaragua, a member since 1952, will end its membership on December 31, 2026. Until then, it must continue to fulfill its financial obligations to the organization.

A total of 194 countries belong to this United Nations organization for Education, Science, and Culture, which manages the World Heritage List. Nicaragua has two sites on the list: León Cathedral and the ruins of León Viejo.

Control and Exile

Nicaragua ranks lowest among Latin American countries in the RSF press freedom index. Its government “has eradicated independent media, stripped numerous journalists of their nationality, and forced hundreds into exile,” according to the NGO. Ortega, a 79-year-old former guerrilla who took part in the Sandinista revolution that overthrew dictator Anastasio Somoza, tightened his grip on Nicaraguan society after the 2018 anti-government protests that left over 300 dead, according to the UN.

In the past seven years, around 50 independent or critical media outlets have shut down in Nicaragua and had their assets seized. About 300 journalists have gone into exile, according to press organizations. In the past year, four journalists were arrested, one for reporting on the rising cost of living, and the whereabouts of three remain unknown, RSF reported in March.

A sweeping constitutional reform in effect since February gives Ortega and Murillo absolute power in the country and establishes “surveillance” of the press, among other control measures.

Costa Rica’s High Costs Push U.S. Tourists to Cheaper Destinations

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Costa Rica’s High Costs Push U.S. Tourists to Cheaper Destinations

Costa Rica, known as one of the best places for a relaxing vacation is losing middle-class U.S. tourists as costs climb. Higher prices for lodging, food, and transportation, driven by a stronger local currency and inflation, have shifted the country toward an exclusive, high-end market, raising alarms in the tourism sector.

A Yahoo Finance report, “5 Vacation Expenses the Middle Class Can’t Afford Anymore,” highlights this trend. “Costa Rica was once known as a budget-friendly destination. However, a combination of currency shifts and inflation has pushed vacation costs far beyond what many middle-class travelers can afford,” the article stated. Casey Halloran, CEO and co-founder of Costa Rican Vacations, told Yahoo, “What we are observing in our statistics is that the middle-class traveler to Costa Rica has all but vanished. For a family of four, including flights, it is difficult to vacation here for under $2,000.”

Halloran noted that the average vacation cost, excluding flights, has risen from $5,500 in 2022 to $7,800. This has led U.S. tourists to choose cheaper destinations like Panama or the Dominican Republic or to shorten trips. “We are also seeing a shift to shorter stays, sometimes as little as just four nights versus the more traditional seven-night stay. However, what we hear from many who experience sticker shock at seeing one of our quotes is they simply choose to stay home,” he added.

The Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT) reported a 10% decline in U.S. visitors in 2024, with 1.4 million arrivals compared to 1.56 million in 2023. Air arrivals fell 7% in February 2025, from 291,090 to 270,810, marking seven months of declines. The Costa Rican colón’s appreciation, now at 512 per U.S. dollar from 614 in 2022, has increased costs by 15–20% for Americans, per the National Chamber of Tourism (CANATUR). Shirley Calvo, CANATUR’s executive director, said, “The exchange rate is hurting our competitiveness. Tourists are choosing places where their dollars stretch further.”

Security issues compound the problem. The Judicial Investigation Agency (OIJ) recorded 907 homicides in 2023, 880 in 2024, and 225 in early 2025, mostly drug-related. Over 6,300 tourists faced crimes like theft and assault from 2020 to 2024, prompting U.S. and Canadian Level 2 travel advisories for increased caution. A recent car robbery gained international attention, with recent posts stating, “Costa Rica is now expensive, and crime is up”.

Tourism, contributing 8.2% to GDP and 8.8% to employment, supports rural areas like Guanacaste and Limón. CANATUR projects a 15–20% arrival drop in 2025, risking jobs. A Nosara hotel reported a 25% booking decline, cutting staff. “U.S. families aren’t coming as before,” a manager told La Nación.

CANATUR seeks exchange rate intervention, but Central Bank President Róger Madrigal cites reduced U.S. flights (down 10% in 2025) and competition from Panama, which saw a 12% U.S. visitor rise. Tourism Minister William Rodríguez pushes high-end tourism, but Rubén Acón, former CANATUR president, argues, “Focusing on wealthier visitors ignores the middle-class market that built our industry.”

Hotel prices have risen 20% since 2020, with a 13% VAT, higher electricity, and wages adding pressure. Health risks like 1,900 dengue cases in 2025 and shellfish toxin bans are minor but noted. X posts, like @armandomayorga’s mention of $7,800 vacations, echo complaints about costs.

With Panama and the Dominican Republic drawing U.S. tourists, Costa Rica’s tourism industry urges policy changes to restore affordability and safety, critical to its economic role.

Keylor Navas Set to Rejoin Costa Rican National Team for 2025 Gold Cup

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Keylor Navas Set to Rejoin Costa Rican National Team for 2025 Gold Cup

Goalkeeper Keylor Navas, a Costa Rican football icon, is poised to return to La Sele for the 2025 Gold Cup, nearly a year after announcing his retirement from international duty in May 2024. The 38-year-old, currently starring for Newell’s Old Boys in Argentina, reached an agreement with head coach Miguel “Piojo” Herrera following a pivotal meeting in Rosario.

Herrera, accompanied by Osael Maroto, president of the Costa Rican Football Federation, traveled to Argentina in late April to persuade Navas to reverse his retirement decision. The meeting proved successful, with sources close to Newell’s confirming Navas’ commitment to rejoin the national team for the Gold Cup, scheduled for June 14 to July 6, 2025, across the United States and Canada.

Navas’ retirement last year followed a 16-year tenure with La Sele, during which he earned over 100 caps and played in three World Cups, including a standout quarter-final run in 2014. Citing the need to “heal” his mind, heart, and body, Navas stepped away from international football after a challenging period. Despite his exit, he left the door open for a potential return, a possibility Herrera seized upon after witnessing Navas’ exceptional form at Newell’s.

Since joining Newell’s on a two-year contract in January, Navas has delivered remarkable performances, including a 12-save masterclass in a 2-0 win over Tigre and a penalty save against Boca Juniors in another 2-0 victory. Though Newell’s struggled in the Argentine First Division, failing to reach the playoffs with 11 points in 11 matches, Navas’ individual brilliance has reaffirmed his status as one of CONCACAF’s elite goalkeepers.

Herrera, who views Navas’ experience as unmatched in the region, emphasized his value to the squad. “There are few players globally with his level of experience. In CONCACAF, it’s hard to find a player like him,” Herrera said. The coach aims to leverage Navas’ leadership for critical World Cup qualifiers against Bahamas on June 7 and Trinidad and Tobago on June 10, in addition to the Gold Cup.

While Navas’ return is confirmed for the Gold Cup, his participation in earlier matches, such as a friendly against Catalonia on May 28, remains uncertain. Some reports suggest he could join the team sooner, but no definitive timeline has been established.

The decision to bring back Navas has sparked debate, as current goalkeeper Patrick Sequeira has excelled in Portugal and solidified his role as La Sele’s primary shot-stopper. Critics argue that Navas’ return could disrupt Sequeira’s development, while supporters believe his veteran presence will elevate the team’s performance in high-stakes tournaments.

Following the conclusion of Newell’s season, Navas is expected to take a brief break before joining Costa Rica’s training camp to prepare for the upcoming competitions. His return marks a significant boost for La Sele, as the team seeks to build on its storied history with one of its greatest players back in the fold.

Separately, Navas has expressed interest in eventually playing for Saprissa, where he began his career, to close out his professional journey in Costa Rica. For now, his focus remains on Newell’s and his imminent return to La Tricolor.

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