Rafael Louzán: 'I cannot think of a better moment for Spanish football'

Rafael Louzán leads Spanish football at a remarkable time.

When Rodri raised the World Cup trophy aloft in New Jersey last month, Spain became the first nation to hold concurrent world champion status in both men’s and women’s football, following their women’s team's triumph in 2023.

For Louzán, elected RFEF president in December 2024, that success represents not only a historic moment on the pitch, but also a reflection of the structures that have shaped Spanish football from the grassroots up.

That perspective has been formed over many years – he began his public career in Galicia as deputy mayor of his hometown, Ribadumia, before becoming president of the provincial council of Pontevedra.

Louzán entered football administration in 2015 as president of the Galician Football Federation, where he modernised operations, expanded the grassroots game and even oversaw victory in the UEFA Regions' Cup – our competition for amateur teams – in 2023.

That grassroots passion remains central to both his personal ethos and the RFEF’s development strategy, but we began by asking him about Spain’s position on top of the world.

Rafael, Spain now occupies a unique place in world football, as both men's and women's world champions. How do you reflect on that achievement? 

It is something historic, something that had never happened before. We should be extremely proud of it, and especially of the work that has gone into reaching this unprecedented position. It is wonderful to be able to say that we are world champions, playing a style of football built on teamwork and harmony. Our national teams have set a great example on the pitch. 

As reigning European men's and women's Under-19 champions, Spanish football seems to be in fantastic health… 

Well, the results speak for themselves. We are enjoying great sporting success at every level: senior national teams, youth national teams, clubs, and more. 

We have an organised, efficient and comprehensive grassroots structure that supplies talent to top clubs and national teams alike. The RFEF provides essential support through our regional federations, where the journey to success begins. From there, players continue to develop and eventually strengthen our national teams. It is a carefully developed and, as I said, efficient model that is delivering the best possible results, with endless opportunities from the grassroots level upwards. 

Spain is a country that loves football and is united by the sport. I cannot think of a better moment for Spanish football. Spaniards are proud of their national teams and players and moreover, we have institutions that work together in coordination and harmony.  

Spain celebrate their success at this summer's UEFA Women's Under-19 EUROUEFA via Getty Images

What are the key ingredients behind Spain’s ability to produce world-class footballers in both the women’s and men’s game? 

First and foremost, the model I have referred to, which is implemented directly across the different regions through non-professional football. From there, efficient management, resources and investment all play their part.

It certainly helps that Spain is a football nation and that the sport is part of our lives from the moment we are born. Not only do we organise much of our daily lives around football, but it is also a unifying force across the country. The grassroots game is the key to the success of our national teams. The work begins there, and it is through that foundation that we achieve the results we are all enjoying today. 

Luis de la Fuente came through the federation pathway before leading the senior men’s national team. How do you assess his role in this period of success? 

What Luis has achieved is undeniable. His journey has been flawless. He has contributed so much, not only to football but to the entire country, that his stature is beyond question. We are grateful for his professionalism and for everything he has accomplished. It is clear that he got it absolutely right when choosing the team that made us world champions for the second time and he has been crucial to the success we have achieved. 

Louzán (left) with Luis de la Fuente

Women’s football has grown enormously in Spain in recent years. What needs to happen to maintain that momentum? 

Again, I believe the model we have been working with is the right one, and the results support that view. We have achieved a great deal, but above all there has been an exponential increase in participation at young ages. Today, girls play football in schools, sports centres and clubs, creating tremendous demand. The future is very promising. 

Your own journey in football began long before you became RFEF president. What are your earliest memories of the game? 

Football has always been part of my life. From my childhood right through to today, it has been the driving force that has accompanied me throughout my journey.

I consider myself fortunate to be able to dedicate myself to improving the game in every way possible. Having had the opportunity to lead one of the regional federations, where, as I explained earlier, football begins, was fundamental in helping me understand the importance of working from the grassroots level.

Galicia (striped shirts) beat Belgrade in the 2023 UEFA Regions' Cup finalUEFA via Getty Images

The Galician Football Federation provided me with that experience, which has enabled me to approach this new chapter at the RFEF with a broader perspective. 

Finally, you are also a member of UEFA’s Youth and Amateur Football Committee. Why is that work important? 

The committee structure established by UEFA is vital for the development of the sport. Without question, as I have said throughout this interview, focusing on the grassroots game is the key to achieving the greatest successes. This body carries significant responsibility in that regard.