In a seismic shift for Barcelona’s cultural landscape, the three founders of Sónar Festival, Enric Palau, Ricard Robles, and Sergi Caballero, have announced their complete departure from the event they created in 1994. The news, first reported by La Vanguardia, confirms that leadership of the festival has been handed over to François Jozic, the Belgian founder of Brunch Electronik. This change solidifies the dominance of Superstruct Entertainment, the multinational promoter that acquired a majority stake in Sónar back in 2018. For more details, see the original report here .
A New Chapter for Sónar
The transition comes after one of the most challenging editions in Sónar’s history. In June 2025, the festival faced intense scrutiny due to its association with KKR, the American investment firm accused of having financial interests in Israeli real estate projects within Palestinian territories. The controversy led to the withdrawal of nearly 30 artists from the lineup, while others used their stage time to denounce Israel’s actions in Gaza. Despite the backlash, Sónar closed its 32nd edition with record attendance, welcoming 161,000 visitors, up from 154,000 the previous year.
In a joint statement released by the founders, they expressed gratitude for the festival’s legacy, calling it “32 magnificent and intense years filled with effort, challenges, and unforgettable moments.” They credited the festival’s success to the creative communities, dedicated teams, the city of Barcelona, and loyal audiences who supported them through the decades.
“Now, each of us embarks on a new chapter with enthusiasm, hoping that Sónar continues to thrive into the future,” they added.
François Jozic Takes the Helm
Replacing the trio is François Jozic, a seasoned figure in the electronic music scene and the driving force behind Brunch Electronik, another event managed by Superstruct. Since its inception in 2014, Brunch Electronik has grown from small Sunday outdoor parties in Barcelona to a globally recognized brand. Jozic’s appointment signals a strategic move by Superstruct to consolidate its influence over both events under a unified vision.
This leadership change coincides with significant logistical adjustments for Sónar. Starting in 2026, the festival will relocate entirely to Fira Gran Via L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, leaving behind the traditional Montjuïc venue due to ongoing renovations. The new location aims to integrate all components of the festival—Sónar by Day, Sónar by Night, and Sónar+D—into a single space, streamlining operations and enhancing the attendee experience.
Controversy and Legacy
The shadow of controversy looms large over this transition. The involvement of KKR, which owns Superstruct, sparked accusations of complicity in Israel’s policies toward Palestine. This led to widespread calls for boycotts and protests during the 2025 edition. While the festival managed to mitigate some fallout by replacing canceled acts, questions remain about how these dynamics will affect its future identity and public perception.
What Lies Ahead?
As Sónar enters this new phase, uncertainty surrounds its programming and ethos. Will the festival retain its pioneering spirit under corporate oversight? How will Jozic balance innovation with the expectations of long-time fans? These are pressing questions as the event prepares for its June 18–20, 2026 edition.
For now, the baton has been passed, marking the end of an era defined by Palau, Robles, and Caballero’s visionary leadership. As Sónar steps into uncharted territory, its ability to adapt and evolve will determine whether it remains a beacon of creativity and technological exploration—or becomes just another cog in the global festival machine.
The three founders of Sónar have officially stepped down, marking the end of an era as Superstruct Entertainment takes full control of the festival.