Media outlets indicate Pedro Rocha is set to become the chairman of the RFEF board, taking the helm of the federation through 2024. The news follows a period of upheaval and speculation surrounding leadership after the events surrounding the women’s national team’s World Cup triumph in New Zealand and Australia.
The departure of Luis Rubiales from the Royal Spanish Football Federation marks a turning point. In the hours ahead, the provisional chairmanship is expected to be replaced, if the reports prove accurate, with Rocha emerging as the leading candidate to assume the top role on the board. This step would reflect a broader reshuffle reported by major outlets on a Friday night in Spain.
One of the first names linked to Rubiales’ succession by several media outlets is Pedro Rocha, the current president of the Extremadura Football Federation. He has been identified by outlets such as AS and Cadena Cope as a likely interim replacement as the federation begins its transition.
Meanwhile, Marca suggested there are alternate possibilities circulating within the federation’s network. Elvira Andrés, a vice president, has been mentioned as a potential candidate, with Paco Díez, the chief president of the Madrid regional federation, also appearing in discussions about the succession.
Who is Pedro Rocha, the Extremadura Federation leader who could lead the RFEF?
More than five years after Rubiales stepped into the spotlight, the former president’s era at the RFEF is drawing to a close. The official announcement regarding a successor has not been issued, but many observers expect the leadership to come from within the current board. Dozens of reports on Thursday evening pointed to Pedro Rocha as the probable chairman of the board, at least in the short term.
Rocha currently heads the Extremadura Football Federation and has served as a vice president of the RFEF. The move would come after a lengthy meeting held in Las Rozas, as reported by Cadena Cope and the outlet AS. The discussions reflect a consensus among several voices within the federation about a change at the top.
Rocha has long been associated with Rubiales, described by insiders as a trusted ally. He has a background as a businessman since 1993, managing multiple ventures, and his early career included involvement in futsal and several seasons playing in the Division of Honor. He has also contributed to CP Cacereño as a board member and part of its coaching staff.
In recent years Rocha has focused on administrative leadership at the Extremadura Football Association, holding several roles that culminated in his election as president in 2013. His trajectory within the federation underscores a broader shift toward continuity and experienced governance, aligning with the federation’s plans as it navigates a period of change.
As the RFEF contends with leadership transitions, observers emphasize the importance of stability, governance experience, and a clear vision for the federation’s direction in both men’s and women’s football, youth development, and national competition. The evolving scenario highlights how leadership choices can influence strategic priorities, financial stewardship, and international relations in Spanish football.
Notes from industry watchers and sports analysts point to a pivotal moment for the federation as it seeks to reinforce credibility after a year marked by controversy and reform efforts. The outlook for the RFEF will depend on the selection process, the ability to garner broad support from regional federations, and the capacity to implement reforms that resonate with clubs, players, and fans across Spain. [citation: Goal]