Andorran FA reviews Nou Estadi costs amid licence talks with FC Andorra

The Andorran Football Federation (FAF) says talks with FC Andorra to extend the club’s use of the Nou Estadi d’Encamp are ongoing but being handled cautiously after a review of operating costs uncovered higher‑than‑expected expenses, notably electricity bills. FAF president Félix Álvarez said the federation needs a clearer picture of supply and running costs before committing to a long‑term concession and will factor those figures into any reassessment of the fee charged for pitch use.

The current licence for FC Andorra to use the Nou Estadi runs until 30 June. The federation has previously cited an annual operating figure of around €800,000 for the facility, a sum reported to be split between the government and the club. Álvarez said recent bills have produced “surprises” that will help determine whether the current rental terms are fair and financially sustainable.

Federation officials also say negotiations have been moved down the priority list in part because FC Andorra’s sporting situation — an early Copa del Rey exit, a run of poor results and changes on the coaching staff — affects stadium usage and season planning. The FAF stresses any management agreement must be compatible with the club’s calendar and with the federation’s broader sustainability objectives.

The FAF is pursuing naming‑rights sponsorship for the Nou Estadi as an additional revenue stream but cautions it will not rush into a deal, seeking a partner that is commercially and strategically suitable. Improving income from facilities is a key element of the federation’s aim to reduce dependence on external grant funding.

These stadium negotiations form part of the FAF’s Strategic Plan 2025–28, which prioritises development of the national teams and club competitions, greater professionalisation of clubs, improved coach and referee education, stronger governance and enhanced financial sustainability. The federation noted current reliance on UEFA and FIFA funding — estimated at 85–90% of its budget — and said it seeks to diversify revenue by better exploiting federation facilities and creating commercial opportunities.

As part of the strategy, the FAF has opened preliminary talks with the government on a special regime for professional athletes designed to streamline player registrations and ease immigration quotas. The federation also plans to study measures with clubs — such as minimum national‑player quotas or alignment rules — to increase the presence of Andorran players in domestic competitions, stressing any rule must be balanced, enforceable and genuinely beneficial for player development.

The FAF has held early contacts with landowners to explore additional infrastructure, including potential futsal pavilions and other facilities, but said those projects remain at a preliminary stage. Overall, the federation’s stated aim is that any commercial or leasing arrangements be economically sustainable and aligned with the goal of stabilising club management and protecting the long‑term viability of facilities and competitions.