UEFA Licensing Exchange Programme: Rondelli and Zoppis in Andorra

Paolo Rondelli and Andrea Zoppis, respectively Licensing Manager and Deputy Licensing Manager for the FSGC, travelled to the Pyrenees – to Andorra – for the second event within the Licensing Exchange Programme promoted by UEFA, which paired the San Marino and Andorran FAs, from 23 to 25 April. The officials responsible for UEFA licences within the FAF had visited the FSGC last November; this time it was Rondelli and Zoppis’ turn to gain an understanding of the Andorran working methodology in this area. Also present on this occasion were Ales Zavrl and David Peradalta Negre, Head of Club Licensing and Club Licensing Specialist for UEFA.

The visit focused on analysing the similarities and differences between the two licensing systems, coordinated by FAF Licensing Manager Andrea Vidal, and also on direct exchanges with the Andorran FA leadership – Felix Alvarez (President) and David Rodrigo (General Secretary). Over three intensive days, Rondelli and Zoppis were also able to meet the financial experts of the Andorran FA and clubs, as well as the CEOs and Administrative Managers of two major local sides, Santa Coloma and Inter Club d’Escaldes, and the Chairmen of the FIB and AB Licensing Commissions. These were important opportunities for dialogue to discuss the procedures currently in place within the licensing system and to assess possible changes that could benefit both football associations.