President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella announced on July 7, 2026, the appointment of Juliana Gutiérrez Zuluaga as the incoming Minister of Sport. Gutiérrez, a business administrator and risk management expert, is scheduled to assume the position on August 7, following the inauguration of the new administration.
Gutiérrez has been a consistent supporter of De la Espriella’s presidential platform since the beginning of his campaign. Her transition into the cabinet follows her recent legislative bid in March 2026, where she ran for the Senate under the Creemos movement, securing 96,438 votes according to data from the Registraduría.
Background and Professional Experience
Beyond her political profile, Gutiérrez brings over 26 years of political involvement to the ministry. Her experience dates back to her early work in youth councils alongside her brother, Federico Gutiérrez, the Mayor of Medellín.
Her engagement with public policy and social work is rooted in personal experience. Following the death of her son, Jerónimo, who passed away due to cancer, and the diagnosis of a degenerative orphan disease in her daughter, Alicia, she focused her Senate candidacy on health reform and security initiatives.
Did You Know?
Juliana Gutiérrez Zuluaga has been active in politics for more than two decades, beginning her career in local youth councils while working alongside her brother, Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez.
Implications for the New Government
The appointment of Gutiérrez is part of a broader cabinet rollout by President-elect De la Espriella. Other recent announcements include Elsa Noguera as Minister of Transport, Mauricio Gómez Amín as Minister of Commerce, Viviane Morales as Minister of Education, and Jaime Andrés Beltrán as Minister of Housing.
Expert Insight:
What Happens Next
As the August 7 inauguration approaches, the incoming ministers are expected to finalize their transition teams. The public may see further policy details emerge as these appointees begin to coordinate with outgoing officials.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Juliana Gutiérrez Zuluaga take office?
She will assume the role of Minister of Sport on August 7, 2026, upon the inauguration of the new government.
What is her professional background?
Gutiérrez is a business administrator with a master’s degree in risk management and has over 26 years of experience in political and social work.
What was her recent political experience?
She was a candidate for the Senate in the March 2026 legislative elections with the Creemos movement, where she received 96,438 votes.
How will the integration of new ministers impact the upcoming transition of power?
