Argentina’s Rugby Leadership Shifts: A New Era for Los Pumas
The Unión Argentina de Rugby (UAR) has ushered in a new leadership team, marking a significant moment for the nation’s rugby future. Félix Páez Molina, from the Unión Cordobesa de Rugby, has been elected as the 47th president of the UAR, succeeding Gabriel Travaglini. This transition, formalized in the Annual Ordinary and Extraordinary Assembly, signals a commitment to strengthening the foundations of Argentine rugby, from grassroots development to the continued success of Los Pumas.
A New Team Takes the Helm
Alongside Páez Molina, Fernando Rizzi (Unión de Rugby de Buenos Aires) will serve as Vice President Primero, and Jaime Barba (Unión Entrerriana de Rugby) as Vice President Segundo. Rodrigo Roncero (URBA) assumes the role of Secretary, while Matías Gorosito (Unión de Rugby de Rosario) continues as Treasurer. This geographically diverse leadership reflects a dedication to a federal approach to governing the sport across Argentina.
Key Appointments and Council Composition
The new Consejo Directivo (CD) for the 2026-2030 period includes representatives from various regional unions, ensuring broad representation. Gustavo Cohen (URBA), Juan Emilio Torres (Unión de Rugby de Tucumán), Diego Pasman (URBA), Lucas Verdeguer (Unión Sanjuanina de Rugby), Martín Azpiroz (Unión de Rugby del Sur), Jorge Luis García Borges (Unión de Rugby del Nordeste), and Daniel Albarracin (Unión de Rugby Austral) will serve as vocal titulares. A full list of vocal suplentes and members of the Comisión Revisora de Cuentas is available on the UAR website.
Travaglini’s Legacy and Páez Molina’s Vision
Outgoing President Gabriel Travaglini expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the UAR, highlighting the organization’s clear direction and solid project. He voiced confidence in the incoming leadership’s ability to build upon existing successes. Páez Molina, having served as Vice President Primero during the 2022-2026 term, emphasized a collaborative approach to leadership, drawing parallels to the teamwork essential in rugby itself.
“I believe in processes where the function of the leader is as vital as that of the rest of the team,” Páez Molina stated. His focus will be on strengthening grassroots rugby, recognizing the amateur game as the cornerstone of Los Pumas’ continued growth. This commitment to development aligns with Argentina’s recent successful bid to host the Rugby World Cup in 2035, as announced by Americas Rugby News and Planet Rugby.
Argentina’s Rugby World Cup 2035 Bid and Future Growth
Argentina’s successful bid for the 2035 Rugby World Cup is a testament to the nation’s growing prominence in the sport. Hosting the tournament will not only boost the country’s economy but also inspire a new generation of rugby players. Páez Molina’s emphasis on strengthening the amateur game is crucial for maximizing the long-term benefits of hosting such a prestigious event.
The UAR’s strategic plan, as outlined by the new president, aims to expand the base of the sport and support the growth of clubs, which are vital for nurturing talent and sustaining the success of Los Pumas. This holistic approach, combining top-level competition with grassroots development, positions Argentina for continued success on the international stage.
FAQ
Q: Who is the new president of the UAR?
A: Félix Páez Molina.
Q: What is the UAR’s primary focus for the next four years?
A: Strengthening grassroots rugby and supporting the growth of clubs.
Q: When will Argentina host the Rugby World Cup?
A: 2035.
Q: Who was the previous president of the UAR?
A: Gabriel Travaglini.
Did you know? Argentina has a rich rugby history, dating back to 1899 when the UAR was founded.
Pro Tip: Supporting local rugby clubs is a great way to contribute to the growth of the sport in Argentina.
Stay updated on the latest developments in Argentine rugby by visiting the UAR website and following Los Pumas on social media. Share your thoughts on the new leadership and the future of Argentine rugby in the comments below!
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