A Legal Background, A Passion for Golf

Juan Guerrero-Burgos, a Madrid-based lawyer, brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset to his new role. Since 1997, he has been a key figure within the RFEG, steadily ascending the ranks through his legal expertise and dedication to the sport. He succeeded Gonzaga Escauriaza, a highly respected figure in Spanish golf management, a move that, according to Guerrero-Burgos, prioritizes a smooth and orderly transition – a principle he emphasized was paramount in ensuring the Federation’s stability. “I am a lawyer and I have my professional office. Now, fortunately, I have people who wear it well, but the Federation requires, above all at the beginning, a dedication and I come practically every day.”

Immediate Priorities: Olazábal and a Strategic Vision

Guerrero-Burgos’s first significant move was to secure José María Olazábal as the head of the Pro Spain Team program. This appointment, made just weeks into his tenure, immediately signals a commitment to nurturing young talent and providing a pathway to professional golf. “I think Olazábal is the most prestigious golfer in Spanish golf,” Guerrero-Burgos stated. “I was sorry not to incorporate it into the federation, because for the kids who want to move to Pro, it is a huge reference.” The program’s focus will be on guiding aspiring golfers as they transition to the professional circuit, leveraging Olazábal’s extensive experience and insights.

The Path to Leadership: A Deep-Rooted Connection to Spanish Golf

Guerrero-Burgos’s involvement with the RFEG began in 1997, thanks to an introduction from Luis Álvarez de Bohorques, a longstanding and influential figure within the organization. “Luis Álvarez de Bohorques, who has been an institution in the Federation, told me that if he wanted to incorporate me as an external lawyer, and told him that he was delighted.” The succession was driven by the untimely death of Luis Álvarez, a loss that the Federation mourned deeply, and Gonzaga Escauriaza subsequently nominated Guerrero-Burgos as his successor – a choice he deemed appropriate due to his intimate knowledge of the Federation’s operations and his unwavering dedication to the sport. “I had all the conditions,” he explained, “I know the house well, I really like golf and I think I can contribute things.”

Balancing Responsibilities: Life as a Lawyer and a Golf Enthusiast

Despite his demanding role as Federation President, Guerrero-Burgos maintains a personal passion for golf, regularly playing and holding a handicap of 18. “I started late in golf. I started with 15 years because an uncle of mine, a brother of my father, was the lawyer in Spain of a man named Gregory Peters, who was the one who made the field of manga in the year 72. They invited Gary Player and Manolo Santana to the inauguration, and there I took my first golf stick.” He acknowledges the challenges of balancing his professional and personal commitments, noting the significant time investment required to serve as President. “There are people who are working here, and they make me happy, but I want to be sure that I can put in the effort every day,” he commented.

A Testament to Unity: The Spanish Golf Landscape

Guerrero-Burgos highlighted the remarkable unity within the Spanish golf community – encompassing club members, regional federations, and elite athletes. “There are 310,000 federated and we continue to grow little by little,” he stated proudly. “The golf is that it has huge advantages. It is a sport in which you socialize, it is a sport that does not require a physical condition to practice it at a recreational level and then it is a sport that hooks you. You can play very badly, but you give three good blows and you are looking forward to playing again the next day.” This collective commitment, he believes, is a crucial foundation for the Federation’s success.

The Ryder Cup Ambitions: Catalonia 2031

Perhaps the most exciting prospect on the horizon is the potential for Catalonia to host the Ryder Cup in 2031. The Camiral Golf & Wellness course, already a renowned venue, is under consideration. ““With the two fields of the camiraral combining them, you can make a magnificent Ryder.” Guerrero-Burgos stated. “I think that European Tour El Camiral likes it a lot and bets on the project.” While negotiations remain ongoing, the ambition to bring the prestigious event to Spain is a clear priority. “I am sincerely optimistic,” he added, “but I cannot say much more, because it does not depend on us.”

Legacy and Transition

Gonzaga Escauriaza will continue to serve as an honorary president, a testament to his decades of service to Spanish golf. “Gonzaga continues in this house because by unanimity he was appointed honorary president and leaves a very important legacy,” said Guerrero-Burgos. “Leave the legacy of the golf unit and leave the legacy of the triumphs both professional and at the amateur level. Two years ago we won practically all amateur European championships.”

“I doubted a lot because I am not a golfer of the level of Gonzaga Escauriaza or Emma Villacieros. But I thought about it and I think I can contribute things

Addressing Concerns: Sustainability and Public Access

When questioned about potential challenges, such as water usage and public access to the sport, Guerrero-Burgos emphasized the Federation’s commitment to sustainable practices and expanding opportunities. “We are the country of Europe that uses more recycled water to water the fields and we are more sustainable,” he noted. “They say we consume a lot of water and that we are an elitist sport, but I would love to have a face to face with someone who says this.” He highlighted the Federation’s efforts to promote Pitch & Putt facilities and encourage participation at all levels.

Looking Ahead: A Future Fueled by Unity and Passion

As Guerrero-Burgos embarks on his tenure, his vision is clear: to build upon the strong foundation established by his predecessors and propel Spanish golf to even greater heights internationally. With a dedicated team, a strong sense of unity, and an unwavering passion for the sport, the future of Spanish golf looks brighter than ever.