The global eSports market is experiencing explosive growth, transforming digital entertainment into a major global industry. Valued at $2 billion USD in 2023, this sector is expected to register a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 15% between 2024 and 2032. Other analyses corroborate this trend, indicating a base value of $2.10 billion USD in 2024 and projecting an expansion to $11.15 billion USD by 2034, with a CAGR of 14.01% over the 2025-2034 period.
This global dynamic has not escaped the Principality of Andorra, which has identified eSports as a promising new avenue for economic diversification and international visibility. Aware of the sector’s potential, Andorra has clearly demonstrated its ambition to position itself as a notable player on the eSports scene.
eSports in Andorra, a Strategic Ambition in the Heart of the Pyrenees
This commitment materialized in May 2021 with the presentation of a dedicated strategic plan by the Andorran government. This initial commitment demonstrates a long-term vision and a proactive approach to entering this new economy. Andorra’s engagement in eSports is not merely an adherence to a trend, but a carefully considered and structured approach, supported at the highest level of the state. The combination of a national strategic plan, a specific legislative framework, and the active involvement of economic development agencies demonstrates a coordinated approach, typical of nations seeking to position themselves in emerging markets with high potential.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the Andorran eSports ecosystem. Drawing on verified data, it seeks to inform investors, entrepreneurs, industry professionals, and market observers about the initiatives, structures, opportunities, and challenges that characterize the development of eSports in the Principality.
A Strong Political Will: The Strategic and Legal Framework of Andorran eSports
Andorra’s ambition to carve out a prominent place in the eSports universe is built on solid foundations, characterized by a strong political will and the implementation of a specific strategic and legal framework. This structured approach aims to create an environment conducive to the emergence and sustainable development of this innovative sector.
The National Strategic Plan for eSports: A Pioneering Vision
Andorra made headlines by becoming the first country in the world to approve a strategic plan specifically dedicated to electronic sports. This initiative also positions it as the second country in Europe and the fifth worldwide to adopt a law to regulate this rapidly expanding sector.
The main objective of this plan is clear: to make Andorra an international reference in the field of eSports and to build a complete ecosystem, involving all actors in the value chain, both national and international, in order to promote significant economic and social development.
This strategic plan revolves around several major axes, including economy and business, tourism, the organization of competitions, the development of information technology (IT) infrastructure, as well as the legal framework and governance. Key planned actions include encouraging the creation of new companies specialized in eSports, attracting renowned international companies, transforming Andorra into a destination of choice for eSports events, investing in professional training adapted to the sector’s professions, deploying 5G technology throughout the territory, and creating physical infrastructure capable of hosting competitions and large-scale events.
Law 8/2021 on Electronic Sports: An Innovative Legal Framework
Approved in April 2021, the “Llei 8/2021, del 29 d’abril, d’esports electrònics” constitutes the cornerstone of the Andorran system. It aims to establish a safe and protective legal environment for all stakeholders in the sector.
This law comprehensively regulates contractual relationships between professional players and their teams, defines the rights and obligations of clubs, whether professional or amateur, establishes the requirements for organizing eSports competitions and events, specifies the status of players and coaches, and includes provisions relating to safety, the health of participants, and anti-doping measures.
By providing such legal security, Andorra aims to attract investment and promote the professionalization of the sector. The speed with which this legislative and strategic framework has been put in place positions the Principality as a regulatory “early adopter” in Europe. Being the “first country in the world to approve a strategic plan” and “the second in Europe to approve a law” is not trivial. It suggests a desire to gain a competitive advantage by offering a clear and secure framework ahead of other potentially competing nations.
Regulatory and Promotion Bodies: A Structured Governance
Law 8/2021 also provided for the creation of two key entities for the governance of the sector:
- Comissió Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics (Andorran Electronic Sports Commission): Established by Law 8/2021, this commission is composed of representatives from the ministries in charge of economy, sports, and interior. Its functions are multiple: it ensures compliance with legislation, proposes regulatory changes, manages the official registers of professional and non-professional players and technicians, and ensures cooperation with national and international entities in the sector. It is also responsible for developing the strategic plan, based on government proposals.
- Comitè Andorrà de Promoció dels Esports Electrònics (Andorran Committee for the Promotion of Electronic Sports): Also established by Law 8/2021, this committee aims to serve as a platform for permanent dialogue between the main agents and entities in the eSports sector in Andorran territory. Its minimum composition includes representatives of professional clubs, player associations, event organizers, video game developers, as well as entities such as Andorra Telecom.
This dual structure, with a Commission focused on regulation and administrative management, and a Committee dedicated to promotion and dialogue, demonstrates a balanced approach. Through its registration and normative proposal powers, the Commission ensures formal supervision and control of the sector. The Committee, with its broader composition including a variety of private actors, is designed to foster collaboration, sector adherence to strategic orientations, and the co-construction of initiatives.
Table 1: Key Initiatives and Legal Framework for eSports in Andorra
Initiative/Law | Main Organization/Involved | Key Date/Year | Main Objective |
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eSports Strategic Plan | Government | 2021 | Position Andorra as an international reference |
Law 8/2021 on Electronic Sports | Consell General (Andorran Parliament) | 2021 | Regulate the eSports sector |
Comissió Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics | Government (via Law 8/2021) | 2021 | Manage, supervise, and regulate the sector |
Comitè Andorrà de Promoció dels Esports Electrònics | Government (via Law 8/2021) | 2021 | Ensure dialogue and promotion of the sector |
This institutional and legal architecture demonstrates the Principality’s profound commitment to making eSports a vector for growth and innovation.
The Pillars of the Andorran eSports Ecosystem: Key Actors and Organizations
Andorra’s ambition in the field of eSports is taking shape thanks to a network of actors and organizations that, each at their level, contribute to structuring and energizing the sector. From public institutions to private initiatives, including professional associations, this nascent ecosystem already shows signs of specialization and collaboration.
ACA eSports: The Flagship Initiative for Sim Racing and Beyond
The Automòbil Club d’Andorra (ACA) launched ACA eSports, the first structured eSports team in Andorra, initially focused on the high-potential world of virtual motorsports (Sim Racing). This initiative is not limited to high-level competition; it aims to expand to other eSports disciplines and develop a genuine industry. ACA eSports has a main team composed of four drivers and an academy training ten young prospects.
To support its ambitions, ACA eSports inaugurated the ACA eSports Center, the first high-performance training center for e-drivers in Andorra. Located within the Centre Esportiu d’Ordino (CEO), this 300-400 m² space spread over three floors is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities: latest-generation simulators, training and competition areas, a broadcast room, a content creation studio, a performance analysis space, and offices for staff.
The ACA eSports project benefits from the support of major partners, including Andorra Telecom, the banking entity Creand (formerly Crèdit Andorrà), the Comú (municipality) of Andorra la Vella, and the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). The goal stated by Toti Sasplugas, Secretary General of the ACA, is ambitious: to win a world title within three years. To launch this major project, the ACA notably received a grant of €20,000 from the Andorran government in 2022.
Andorra Esports Clúster: Federating to Innovate
The Andorra Esports Clúster is an association that aims to promote and develop the competitiveness of companies in the Andorran sports sector as a whole. With more than 80 members, including sports entities, companies from various horizons, and professionals, this cluster works to foster collaboration, innovation, and growth.
Its objectives include facilitated access to resources (market studies, financing, trade missions), establishing strategic connections with other sports ecosystems and clusters, and increasing the international visibility of the Andorran sports sector.
Since August 2024, the Andorra Esports Clúster has been chaired by Margot Llobera, a recognized former rally-raid driver, bringing a dynamic and experienced figure to its helm. Although the cluster covers all sports, its action can have significant positive repercussions for eSports, fostering synergies between traditional sports and electronic sports.
Associació Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics (AAEE): The Union of eSports Professionals
Founded in late December 2020, the Associació Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics (AAEE) specifically brings together companies and professionals from the eSports sector in Andorra. Its main mission is to help and cooperate with all actors interested in electronic sports, and to position itself as a representative interlocutor for the ecosystem, particularly to facilitate the establishment of new companies.
Manel Guerrero, who is also the CEO of WhatYouPlay, is a key figure in this association, having participated in several round tables as its representative. The AAEE plays an important role in defending the specific interests of eSports actors and in structuring dialogue within the industry.
WhatYouPlay LVA: Organizer of Local Leagues
Directed by Manel Guerrero, WhatYouPlay LVA is an Andorran company specialized in organizing professional and amateur eSports competitions. It is notably behind the Andorra Video Games League (LVA), a platform designed to allow local players to demonstrate their talents.
WhatYouPlay organizes tournaments on a variety of popular games such as Fortnite, Brawl Stars, FIFA, Clash Royale, Marvel Snap, and Rocket League. Manel Guerrero is also associated with the JOB AND PLAY initiatives, which organize team-building activities with electronic games, and the For2Play application, a token management platform based on players’ skills. These activities help energize the local competitive scene and engage the player community.
The emergence of these different entities sketches an Andorran eSports landscape that, although young, shows early signs of specialization. This structuring is an indicator of the will to cover all aspects necessary for the development of a sector: participants and competitions, representation and collaboration bodies, and strong institutional support.
Table 2: Main Actors in the Andorran eSports Ecosystem
Organization/Company | Type of Actor | Main Role/Activities | Notable Partners/Key People |
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ACA eSports | Professional Team / Academy | Competition (Sim Racing), driver training, ACA eSports Center | Automòbil Club d’Andorra, Andorra Telecom, Creand, Toti Sasplugas |
Andorra Esports Clúster | Sector Association (sports in general) | Promotion of sports business competitiveness, innovation, collaboration | Margot Llobera (President), +80 members (companies and sports professionals) |
Associació Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics (AAEE) | Professional Association (specific to eSports) | Representation of eSports professionals, cooperation, help with business establishment | Manel Guerrero |
WhatYouPlay LVA | Tournament / League Organizer | Organization of the Andorra Video Games League (LVA), local competitions | Manel Guerrero (CEO) |
This panorama illustrates the nascent richness and diversity of stakeholders shaping the future of eSports in Andorra.
Andorra, Host for eSports Events: From Local to International
Andorra’s strategy to position itself on the global eSports map inevitably involves organizing and hosting events capable of attracting players, spectators, media, and investors. The Principality has already demonstrated its ability to organize events of various scales, ranging from public festivals to more targeted international competitions, as well as professional meetings focused on innovation.
eSports City Fest Andorra: The Annual Showcase
eSports City Fest Andorra has quickly established itself as the flagship event of the Andorran eSports scene. Designed as a festival mixing electronic games, technology, and entertainment, it targets both enthusiasts and a broader audience. After a notable first edition on May 20-21, 2023, at the Sports Center of Andorra la Vella, a second edition was held in July 2024.
These events have featured competitions on popular games such as Clash Royale, Fortnite, Rocket League, and Marvel Snap, even offering qualifications for international finals like those of DreamHack Valencia.
The impact of eSports City Fest is notable: more than 250,000 people reportedly followed its competitions, helping to consolidate Andorra’s image as a reference destination in the sector.
Esports City Fest: Andorra Invitational (Brawl Stars)
As part of the eSports City Fest, Andorra hosted international caliber tournaments. The ECF Andorra Invitational for Brawl Stars, which saw the eight best teams from the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, Africa) compete, took place from May 31 to July 27, 2024, at the Congress Center of Andorra la Vella.
With a prize pool of $10,000 USD, this tournament attracted renowned teams such as SK Gaming, ZETA DIVISION, and Totem Esports. Although no Andorran team was explicitly mentioned among the final participants, the event demonstrated the Principality’s logistical and organizational capacity.
GeoGuessr World Cup Wildcard LAN Qualifier (July 2024)
Still in the wake of eSports City Fest Andorra, the Principality hosted a qualifying stage (Wildcard LAN Qualifier) for the 2024 GeoGuessr World Cup in July 2024. This event, organized by GeoGuessr in partnership with Esports City Fest Andorra, was held at the Congress Center of Andorra la Vella.
It offered a highly coveted spot for the grand final in Stockholm and brought together seven high-level invited players as well as one qualifier from the audience present at the festival. Andorra’s association with a world competition for such an innovative and popular game as GeoGuessr reinforces its image as a dynamic eSports destination open to the diversity of practices.
eSports City Talks Andorra: Reflection and Innovation
Beyond competitions, Andorra also seeks to position itself as a place for strategic reflection on the future of eSports. The first edition of eSports City Talks Andorra, organized in February 2024, was sold out.
The objective was to create a catalyst for reflection, discovery, and collaboration, bringing together students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and enthusiasts from various horizons to exchange ideas on innovation in eSports and video games.
Discussions focused on forward-looking themes such as the integration of eSports in urban development and as an economic driver, the disruptive role of blockchain technologies in the sector, and the growing synergies between video games and education.
Internationally renowned speakers from the United States, France, and Spain, including Loren Gold (Greater Raleigh Convention and Visitors Bureau), Edward Tomasi (Subnation), Jean Mariotte (Esports Virtual Arena), Michael Haenisch (Freaks 4U Gaming), and Christoffer Melin (DreamHack festivals), shared their analyses and visions.
Active Participation in International Trade Shows
Andorra’s event strategy is not limited to hosting events on its territory. The Principality, through delegations of local companies, actively participates in major international trade shows and summits. Presences have been noted at the Global Esports Summit (GES) 2023, DreamHack Valencia 2023, the Barcelona Gaming Fair (SAGA), and the 4 Years From Now (4YFN) at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.
These participations are an opportunity to present Andorra’s potential in the eSports sector, to highlight game development companies, player associations, and Andorran clubs, and to establish strategic contacts for future partnerships.
Table 3: Selection of Key eSports Events in Andorra and International Participations (2023-2024)
Event/Trade Show | Dates | Location (if Andorra)/Country (if international) | Highlights/Games | Key Andorran Organizers/Participants |
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eSports City Fest Andorra 2023 | May 2023 | Andorra la Vella | Amateur tournaments (Fortnite, Clash Royale, etc.), DreamHack Valencia qualification | Government organizations |
eSports City Talks Andorra | February 2024 | Andorra | Strategic conferences on the future of eSports, innovation | Judit Hidalgo and other sector experts |
Esports City Fest: Andorra Invitational (Brawl Stars) | May-July 2024 | Andorra la Vella | International professional tournament, $10,000 USD prize pool | encom and local partners |
GeoGuessr World Cup Qualifier | July 2024 | Andorra la Vella | Qualification for the GeoGuessr World Cup | encom, GeoGuessr |
Presence at the Global Esports Summit (GES) 2023 | 2023 | International | Promotion of Andorra’s eSports potential | Andorran companies |
Presence at DreamHack Valencia 2023 | 2023 | Spain | Promotion, participation of Andorran delegations | Andorran companies |
This sustained event activity is an essential pillar of Andorra’s strategy to establish itself as a credible and attractive host for the global eSports community.
Infrastructure and Talent: Building the Future of eSports in the Principality
The development of a sustainable eSports ecosystem relies on two fundamental pillars: quality technological and physical infrastructure, and a pool of talent capable of animating and professionalizing the sector. Andorra has begun to invest in these two areas, although there is room for improvement.
Technological Infrastructure: 5G as a Foundation
Performance in eSports, whether for online competitions, streaming, or the operation of training centers, requires flawless internet connectivity. Aware of this challenge, the Andorran strategic plan includes investments to increase the country’s technological capacity.
The deployment of 5G technology throughout the territory by Andorra Telecom was a project announced for 2022. Although its precise state of progress is not detailed in the consulted documents, the provision of such infrastructure is crucial. At the same time, the creation of an entity dedicated to cybersecurity management has also been planned, an essential aspect to guarantee the integrity of competitions and data protection.
Dedicated Physical Infrastructure: Places to Practice and Compete
While connectivity is virtual, physical venues for local area network (LAN) competitions, training camps (bootcamps), education, and community socialization are equally important.
The ACA eSports Center, inaugurated within the Centre Esportiu d’Ordino (CEO), is the most striking example of infrastructure specifically dedicated to eSports in Andorra. With its 300-400 m² equipped with simulators, a broadcast area, and analysis spaces, it offers a professional setting for the ACA’s Sim Racing team and academy.
Other venues have been occasionally mobilized for major events: the Congress Center of Andorra la Vella hosted the Esports City Fest Andorra Invitational (Brawl Stars) and the qualification for the GeoGuessr World Cup, while the Sports Center of Andorra la Vella served as the venue for the 2023 edition of eSports City Fest.
The national strategic plan explicitly mentions the need to create and implement infrastructure capable of hosting eSports events of different sizes. The Principality also has a large number of quality traditional sports facilities that could be adapted or serve as inspiration for future multi-purpose eSports centers.
Training and Talent Development: Cultivating Tomorrow’s Skills
The sustainability of the Andorran eSports ecosystem will largely depend on its ability to train and retain local talent. The ACA eSports Academy, which supervises ten young prospects in Sim Racing within its training center, constitutes a first concrete initiative in this direction.
The national strategic plan for eSports also includes a component dedicated to investment in professional training, and ACA eSports clearly displays its objective of training a new generation of digital drivers.
Regarding the more general training offer in Andorra, the Planeta Formación y Universidades group lists several Bachelor’s and Master’s programs that, although not exclusively centered on eSports, present obvious links with the sector. These include training in “Sports Management,” “Computing & Digital Technology,” “Desarrollo de Videojuegos y Realidad Virtual” (Video Game Development and Virtual Reality), “Animaciones 3D, Juegos y Entornos Interactivos” (3D Animations, Games, and Interactive Environments), or an “International Master in Sports and Lifestyle Management.”
ACA eSports’ focus on Sim Racing appears to be a judicious strategic choice for Andorra. This discipline capitalizes on the strong culture of motorsports and automobiles present in the Principality and its neighboring regions. Moreover, Sim Racing can offer a more accessible entry point, both financially and logistically, than other major eSports titles to establish a first recognized expertise.
Nevertheless, a careful examination of the training offer in Andorra reveals a current absence of university courses or professional tracks specifically dedicated to the multiple professions of eSports (such as eSports team management, specialized coaching, eSports event organization, marketing and communication in eSports, eSports law, etc.).
Table 4: Key Infrastructure and Training Programs for eSports in Andorra
Type of Infrastructure/Program | Specific Name | Main Characteristics | Involved Actors |
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Technological Infrastructure | 5G Deployment | High-speed, low-latency connectivity essential for eSports | Andorra Telecom |
eSports Training Center | ACA eSports Center | 300-400m², simulators, broadcast area, data analysis, dedicated to Sim Racing | ACA eSports, Centre Esportiu d’Ordino (CEO) |
eSports Academy | ACA eSports Academy | Training of 10 young Sim Racing drivers | ACA eSports |
Related Higher Education | Bachelors/Masters in Sports Management, Information Technology, Video Game Development, etc. | General courses that can provide basic skills useful for certain eSports professions or adjacent sectors | Planeta Formación y Universidades, University of Andorra (UdA) |
These elements constitute the foundations on which Andorra can build its future in eSports. The challenge will be to consolidate and complement them, particularly in terms of specialized training, to meet the needs of a constantly evolving sector.
eSports as a Growth Lever: Economic Impact, Investments, and Advantageous Taxation in Andorra
Andorra’s commitment to eSports is not just a matter of prestige or modernity; it is part of a clear strategy of economic diversification aimed at attracting new investments, creating value, and generating jobs. To achieve this, the Principality relies on a favorable regulatory environment, targeted financial support, and an attractive tax regime.
Economic Diversification and Investment Attraction: A Strategic Priority
eSports is identified as a key sector for the diversification of the Andorran economy, traditionally dependent on tourism and commerce. The objective is to attract new markets, stimulate innovation, and create a center of excellence.
The Andorran government, notably through the law on foreign investments, actively encourages the creation of local companies in the field of eSports and seeks to attract international talent and companies. Events such as the Andorra Business Market, although not exclusively dedicated to eSports, testify to the will to connect emerging companies with potential investors, with significant financing capacities (more than 200 million euros mentioned for one edition).
Grants and Financing: Active Support
To realize its ambitions, Andorra has put in place financial support mechanisms:
- Government grants: Grant programs designed to help Andorran companies, across all sectors, become more competitive, innovative, and develop internationally have been established. In 2024, more than 150,000 euros were awarded to 34 companies. Over several years, more than one million euros have been allocated, benefiting nearly 300 companies.
- Specific support for eSports projects: ACA eSports received a government grant of 20,000 euros in 2022 for the launch of its eSports project. This type of direct support for structuring initiatives is a strong signal of the state’s commitment.
Advantageous Taxation: A Major Competitive Asset
Andorran taxation is one of the pillars of its attractiveness for eSports companies and professionals:
- For companies: Corporate tax (IS) is capped at a maximum rate of 10%. Employer social security contributions are also competitive, amounting to about 15%. A notable advantage is that dividends distributed by Andorran companies to shareholders resident in Andorra are exempt from the Personal Income Tax (IRPF). Additionally, the general costs of labor and infrastructure are considered relatively low compared to neighboring countries.
- For individuals (players, professionals): The IRPF is also capped at 10%. It is not applicable for annual incomes below 24,000 euros, and its rate is 5% for the income bracket between 24,000 and 40,000 euros.
- Passive resident status (category C) for high-level athletes: This specific status allows professional athletes, and potentially internationally renowned eSports players, to reside in Andorra without actively practicing a professional activity on the local market. This status is subject to certain conditions, such as an initial investment or deposit, subscription to health, disability, and old-age insurance, proof of a clean criminal record, and a commitment to stay in the Principality for at least 90 days per year.
Andorran taxation, combined with a pleasant living environment, constitutes a strong argument for attracting companies, investors, and individual talents from the world of eSports.
Economic Impact Figures: A Potential to be Quantified for Andorra
While the overall economic potential of eSports is undeniable (global market estimated at $2.1 billion USD in 2024, with a projection of $11.15 billion USD in 2034), specific data regarding the direct impact of eSports on the Andorran economy are still limited.
For example, 885 major eSports events worldwide in 2019 reportedly generated $56.3 million in ticket revenue alone. For Andorra, general economic forecasts indicate an estimated real GDP growth of 1.7% in 2025, but this figure encompasses the entire economy.
Table 5: Support Mechanisms and Economic Advantages for eSports in Andorra
Type of Advantage/Support | Description | Promoting Organization/Legal Framework | Target Audience |
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Government Grants | Financial aid for innovation, internationalization, SME development. Relevant for eSports companies. | Andorran government | Andorran companies, including those in the eSports sector |
Targeted Grants | Financial support for specific and structuring projects for the eSports sector. | Government of Andorra | Selected eSports projects (e.g., ACA eSports) |
Corporate Taxation | Corporate tax (IS) capped at 10%, low employer social security contributions, dividend exemption for residents under conditions. | Andorran tax framework | Companies established in Andorra, including eSports structures |
Personal Taxation | Personal income tax (IRPF) capped at 10%, with exemption thresholds and low progressive rates. | Andorran tax framework | Tax residents in Andorra, including professional players |
Passive Resident Status Cat. C | Residence permit for high-level athletes and other categories, under conditions, without professional activity on the local market. | Andorran immigration legislation | International professional athletes, potentially eSports players |
These mechanisms testify to Andorra’s concerted effort to create an economic and fiscal environment conducive to the flourishing of the eSports industry on its territory.
The Gaming Community in Andorra: Between Amateur Passion and Professionalization
The rise of eSports in Andorra is not solely based on institutional strategies and investments; it is also fueled by the passion and commitment of a community of players, ranging from enthusiastic amateurs to budding professionals. The vitality of this community is a key indicator of the sector’s growth potential.
Professional Players and Teams: The Pioneers
The emergence of professional structures is a tangible sign of the maturation of the Andorran eSports ecosystem. ACA eSports stands out as the first clearly identified and structured professional team, with an initial specialization in Sim Racing. The main team is composed of drivers such as Helder Cerqueira, Miguel Marques, Nuno Pereira, and Octavio Pisco.
Law 8/2021 on electronic sports frames this professionalization by regulating the contractual relationships between professional players and their teams, and by defining their activity. This law also provides for the mandatory registration of professional players in an official register managed by the Comissió Andorrana d’Esports Electrònics.
At the same time, the passive resident status of category C, intended for high-level athletes, could prove attractive for internationally renowned professional eSports players wishing to establish themselves in Andorra, similar to athletes from other disciplines such as golfer Victor Dubuisson.
Amateur Clubs and Player Community: The Active Pool
Beyond professionalism, an active community of amateur players is essential. Initiatives such as the Esports City League, of which the Esports City Fest Andorra is a component, aim precisely to bring together these amateurs and offer them a competition experience approaching professional standards.
Public participation is also encouraged at certain events, as evidenced by the open qualification for the GeoGuessr World Cup during the Esports City Fest, allowing an audience member to try their luck for a world competition.
“Video game associations” and “clubs” are mentioned as part of Andorran delegations during participation in international trade shows, suggesting the existence of community structures. WhatYouPlay, with its Andorra Video Games League (LVA), offers a regular platform for local players wishing to compete in an organized setting.
Audience and Enthusiasm: Positive Signals
Interest in eSports in Andorra seems real. The fact that more than 250,000 people reportedly followed the competitions of the eSports City Fest Andorra is a strong indicator of this enthusiasm. Similarly, the first edition of eSports City Talks Andorra was sold out, testifying to an appetite for in-depth discussions on the sector.
The GeoGuessr event, planned at the Congress Center of Andorra la Vella, aimed to attract 3,000 visitors. These figures, although requiring continuous analysis, suggest an audience base and public interest which are key factors for attracting sponsors, investments, and further legitimizing the sector.
The choice of games highlighted during major events in Andorra, such as Brawl Stars (a mobile game) and GeoGuessr (a game accessible to a wide audience), in addition to Sim Racing, is significant. This diversification of targeted titles suggests a potentially broader approach strategy. By reaching mobile player communities and more “casual” or innovative games, Andorra could seek to attract a wider and more diverse audience.
Challenges, Opportunities, and Perspectives: What Future for eSports in Andorra?
As Andorra actively pursues its development strategy in the eSports sector, it is essential to analyze recent dynamics, identify key opportunities to seize, recognize challenges to overcome, and outline future perspectives for this market in full structuring.
Recent Dynamics (2024-2025): A Sector in Motion
The year 2024 was marked by a continuity of efforts. eSports City Fest Andorra, in July, was once again a highlight, notably hosting the ECF Brawl Stars Invitational and a qualification for the GeoGuessr World Cup. Earlier in the year, in February, eSports City Talks brought together experts to discuss the future of the sector.
On the financial front, government grant programs remained active for the years 2024 and 2025, offering continued support to companies. A notable change in the governance of the sports sector is the appointment of Margot Llobera as president of the Andorra Esports Clúster in August 2024, bringing new impetus.
On a broader economic level, GDP growth forecasts for Andorra in 2025 stand at 1.7%, and the government has continued its Digital Transformation program, endowed with 20.6 million euros until 2024, creating a favorable technological environment.
Key Opportunities to Seize
- Strategic Niche Positioning: Andorra could strengthen its competitive advantage by specializing further in promising niches where it has already laid the groundwork, such as Sim Racing, or by exploring innovative niches such as eSports related to mountain sports (if relevance emerges) or by continuing to focus on mobile games and original concepts that reach a wide audience.
- Development of eSports Tourism: The strategic plan already identifies tourism as an axis. The challenge is to concretize this vision by developing attractive offers that combine participation in or spectating eSports events with Andorra’s traditional tourist assets (nature, skiing, culture, well-being).
- Attraction of eSports “Digital Nomads”: The Principality has strong arguments (taxation, quality of life, improving connectivity) to attract professional players, streamers, content creators, or independent game developers seeking a privileged living and working environment.
- Creation of Specialized Training: To fill the current gap, the creation of courses dedicated to the multiple professions of eSports (management, marketing, events, coaching, data analysis, etc.), in collaboration with the University of Andorra or other training institutions, and drawing inspiration from international models, is a major opportunity to develop qualified local human capital.
- Valorization of Local Content and Language: Encouraging the creation of eSports content in Catalan and promoting local talent (players, commentators, creators) can strengthen the Andorran eSports identity and the engagement of the local community. Presentations in Catalan during international events have already been noted.
Challenges to Overcome
- Size of the Local Market: Andorra’s relatively limited population constitutes a structural challenge for the constitution of a large base of local players and a significant domestic audience for events.
- Intense International Competition: Many countries and metropolises are investing massively in eSports, like France with its 2020-2025 national strategy. Andorra must distinguish itself through a unique offer and flawless execution.
- Sustainability of Funding: Ensuring the continuity of investments, both public and private, beyond the initial start-up phase is crucial for the long-term viability of projects and infrastructure.
- Development and Retention of Local Expertise: Training talent in all eSports professions is one thing, retaining them in Andorra by offering attractive career prospects is another.
- Impact Measurement and Performance Monitoring: The implementation of precise indicators to measure the economic and social impact of eSports in Andorra is essential for steering the strategy and justifying investments.
Future Perspectives
If Andorra manages to capitalize on its opportunities and overcome its challenges, several positive perspectives emerge. The Principality could consolidate its position as a center of excellence for Sim Racing, attracting high-level teams and competitions. It could also become a sought-after location for “bootcamps” and the preparation of international teams, thanks to its infrastructure, living environment, and tranquility.
The continued attraction of medium-sized and niche international events, as well as the emergence of innovative Andorran start-ups in the sector (game development, eSports technologies, specialized services), are also desirable and possible developments.
The long-term success of Andorra’s eSports strategy will fundamentally depend on its ability to transform current initiatives, which are largely driven by institutional actors and a few passionate pioneers, into a truly self-sustaining ecosystem capable of growing organically.
The integration of the eSports strategy into the broader framework of Andorra’s “digital transformation” and its articulation with the potential implications of an association agreement with the European Union are exogenous factors that could significantly amplify or redirect the development of the sector in the coming years.
Andorra and eSports, a Promising Trajectory to be Confirmed
The analysis of the eSports ecosystem in Andorra reveals a Principality resolutely engaged on the path of structuring and developing this future-oriented sector. Driven by a strong political will, materialized by a pioneering strategic plan and a dedicated legal framework, Andorra has laid the necessary foundations for the emergence of a favorable environment. The first specific infrastructure, such as the ACA eSports Center, and an attractive tax regime constitute undeniable assets for attracting talent and investment.
Initial successes are tangible: the organization of large-scale events such as eSports City Fest and its international variations, the holding of strategic conferences such as eSports City Talks, and the establishment of key actors such as ACA eSports testify to a positive dynamic. The active support of the government and the mobilization of professional associations such as the AAEE and the Andorra Esports Clúster contribute to federating energies and professionalizing the sector.
Nevertheless, the promising trajectory of Andorran eSports must still be confirmed in the face of several challenges. The limited size of the local market, fierce international competition, the need to sustain funding, and, above all, the crucial need to develop pointed local expertise in all eSports professions, notably via specialized training courses that are currently embryonic, are all issues to be addressed.
Ultimately, for Andorra to transform its eSports ambition into a sustainable and internationally recognized success, continuous evaluation of actions taken, great strategic adaptability in the face of a constantly changing market, and sustained commitment to transform initial impulses into a mature and self-sustaining ecosystem will be indispensable.
The Principality has laid solid foundations; it now needs to patiently and intelligently build the edifice of its future in eSports. For wise investors, the unique opportunities offered by this growing market deserve careful consideration. For companies in the sector, integrating into this nascent but ambitious ecosystem can prove strategic. As for Andorran public authorities, maintaining the course, supporting the continued structuring of the sector, and investing in human capital will be the keys to long-term success.
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