Leadership shifts to François Jozic as festival enters new chapter.
Photo credit: Sónar Barcelona – Official
After over 30 years at the helm, Sónar founders Enric Palau, Ricard Robles, and Sergio Caballero have stepped away from their roles. The trio launched the Barcelona-based festival in 1994.
“We’re deeply grateful to all the people, institutions, partners, and friends who have been part of this story and made it possible,” they said in a joint statement. “Now, each of us is embarking on a new stage with enthusiasm, with the desire for Sónar to continue to project itself successfully into the future.”
François Jozic, co-founder of Brunch Electronik and current CEO of Centris (which oversees OFFSónar and Brunch), will take over leadership. “Sónar is one of the most iconic cultural institutions in Barcelona,” he said. “My role will be to protect, nurture, and strengthen this legacy.”
The change follows Superstruct Entertainment’s 2024 acquisition by private equity firm KKR. The deal sparked backlash over KKR’s ties to Israeli firms, prompting over 30 artist cancellations and an open letter of protest.
Sónar’s next edition will move entirely to Fira Gran Via, with its usual daytime venue under renovation.
