Former Minister of Public Works and Transport Rodolfo Méndez Mata faced Television personality and Congressman Dr. Abel Pacheco de la Espriella. Méndez had the endorsement of Rafael Ángel Calderón Fournier, former president and PUSC's historical and most emblematic leader.[1] With PUSC's National Committee conformed by Calderon's supporters, Pacheco was perceived as "the underdog" with the Party's structure and the overwhelming Calderonista grassroots in favor of Méndez.[1] Nevertheless, Pacheco won against all odds on what was described as the beginning of the breaking of Costa Rica's two-party system sustained on political tradition and caudillos' endorsements.[2] Pacheco would also win the presidency in the 2002 race against other candidates like National Liberation's Rolando Araya and Citizens' ActionOttón Solís.[1]
