Eva Orúe Steps Down as Director of the Madrid Book Fair
A Unilateral Decision
Journalist Eva Orúe, who has served as the director of the Madrid Book Fair since 2021, will step down from her position following a “unilateral” decision communicated by the Association of Businesspeople in the Book Commerce of Madrid. This organization oversees the fair held in Retiro Park. The announcement comes just three weeks after the conclusion of the 2026 edition of the event, which saw a decline in both attendance and sales.
The 2026 Edition: A Year of Decline
The 2026 fair marked a notable downturn for the event, with figures reflecting a decrease compared to previous years. Orúe’s team reported a total revenue of €9,862,888, 587,014 books sold, and over 730,000 unique visitors. These statistics signify an approximate 5% contraction across all measures, an unfortunate trend following a booming year in 2025.
Orúe highlighted that unfavorable conditions played a role in this downturn. She noted the extreme heat during the first weekend and a general reluctance among potential visitors during the fair, exacerbated by negative predictions circulating about the event’s viability. Additionally, a visit from the Pope coincided with the fair, which affected the foot traffic negatively. To contrast this, Barcelona’s Sant Jordi celebration achieved record sales of €26.7 million that same year.
Lack of Justification for the Change
Reports from EL MUNDO indicate that the decision to remove Orúe was made without formal justification related to the fair’s declining metrics. There was no prior negotiation or consultation regarding this change, leaving many questions pending about the organization’s rationale.
Orúe’s Vision and Contributions
Taking over from Manuel Gil in 2021, Orúe aimed to transform the fair into a vital cultural hub. She expressed ambitions to make the event a “beacon in the cultural life of the city,” emphasizing that it should extend beyond the mere 18 days of the fair’s operation. Under her leadership, the fair not only recovered but also renewed its agreement to hold the event at Retiro Park for an additional four years.
A Legacy Amid Challenges
Despite facing challenges, Orúe’s tenure has been pivotal for the survival of the book sector post-pandemic. The last normal year before Orúe’s leadership saw fair revenues at €10 million, and her work has been instrumental in helping the industry navigate through the aftermath of the health crisis.
Conclusion: What Lies Ahead?
As the Madrid Book Fair transitions to new leadership, stakeholders will be keenly watching how the change impacts the dynamic of this historic event. Orúe’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter, and the future direction will play a crucial role in defining the fair’s legacy within Madrid’s cultural landscape.