Andorran FAF Mandates SAOE Conversion for Clubs by 2027, Launches Salary Fund

The Andorran Football Federation (FAF) general assembly at the Nou Estadi de la FAF in Encamp approved a new financial regulation on Thursday, requiring all Primera Divisió clubs to convert to Societats Anònimes d’Objecte Esportiu (SAOE) structures by 1 July 2027—ahead of the 2027-28 season—with promoted teams receiving a one-year extension. The measures also establish a salary guarantee fund to shield players and coaches from repeated payment shortfalls.

FAF President Fèlix Álvarez described the changes as a significant step forward during the XXXII assembly, following months of preparation. The SAOE requirement aims to professionalise club operations by isolating professional activities from grassroots levels, improving accountability for mismanagement, and halting illegal association sales—a practice the FAF has reported to the government. Inter Escaldes and FC Santa Coloma already operate as SAOEs, while others are progressing under recent sports law updates.

The fund will cover up to three months of unpaid wages, capped at the government's annual base salary of around €1,500 monthly to ensure longevity. FAF Secretary General David Rodrigo noted that higher salaries, such as €6,000, would deplete resources too rapidly. Funding will draw from FAF allocations, club contributions, and affiliate fees, with precise amounts still under review based on historical disputes. The FAF will recover advances by withholding UEFA or FIFA solidarity payments from non-compliant clubs, ensuring payroll priority. Clubs lacking access to these funds—due to shortfalls in youth, women's programmes, or audits—must secure board guarantees; without them, staff forfeit coverage. Relegated teams reclaim contributions, and promoted sides contribute upon ascent.

Rodrigo stressed the reforms bolster FAF authority within legal bounds. "Many say the FAF does nothing, but it acts as regulations allow," he said, adding that the federation cannot enforce like police.

The Lliga Multisegur Assegurances will feature 10 teams next season, pending resolution for UE Santa Coloma and Ranger’s FC—both tied to past non-payments. Ahead of the assembly, Álvarez confirmed the Competition Committee granted them six days from Thursday to submit required documents. Non-compliance would trigger relegation to Segona Divisió, with two lower-division clubs promoted in their stead. The schedule remains on hold, though Álvarez indicated extraordinary assembly measures could apply.

The 2026 accounts closed nearly balanced, with a €621 surplus supported by revenues including FC Andorra stadium rental and last year's England match. The 2027 budget climbs to €10.75 million, reflecting UEFA demands for youth development and expanded international fixtures.

Andorran clubs secure four European slots next season: Champions League for the champion and three Conference League places, the third determined by a playoff among third- to sixth-placed teams. UEFA will increase player release compensation from €3,659 to €3,845 per match across the 2024-2028 cycle, encompassing Nations League, Euro 2028 qualifiers, and finals. The previous cycle yielded €976,953 total, led by Inter Escaldes at €245,153.

UE Sant Julià, despite registering, will not join Segona Divisió due to unmet requirements and outstanding debts.