Last Sunday, October 19, Andorra hosted the high-profile Andorra Cycling Masters race featuring world-class cyclists Primož Roglič, Tadej Pogačar, Jonas Vingegaard, and Isaac del Toro. The event, promoted as a “marketing project to boost the country’s image,” sparked widespread public outrage. According to media reports, the budget reached €1.2 million, covering athlete fees, event organization, and the filming of a promotional documentary.
For comparison, the total prize pool of the multi-stage Vuelta a España barely exceeds one million euros – roughly the same amount Andorra spent on a single-day spectacle.
Against this backdrop, Andorrans are questioning why the government can find millions for PR-events while most families are struggling to afford rent. Housing prices have hit historic highs, wages lag behind inflation, and, according to local social organizations, one in three residents has been forced to cut back on food and transport expenses.
Despite growing frustration, officials urge patience. Government spokesperson Guillem Casal said during a press conference that the executive would “provide full details on the event’s costs as soon as possible,” but did not confirm the €1.2 million figure, citing confidentiality agreements signed by Andorra Turisme.
Minister of Tourism and Commerce of Andorra Jordi Torres also emphasized that the government does not intend to withhold information and promised that general councillors will have access to it. Authorities justify the spending by arguing that the project will bring “media and economic returns in the future” and help position Andorra as a high-end sports tourism destination.
Meanwhile, residents who are forced to abandon dreams of owning a home amid skyrocketing rents and rising prices view such statements with growing resentment. More and more Andorrans believe their leaders have lost touch with reality, pouring millions into image projects while everyday life for most citizens becomes increasingly unaffordable.
