The Mayor of Elche, Pablo Ruz; the Councilor for Festivals, Inma Mora; and the third deputy mayor, Aurora Rodil, have announced the appointment of Josan, known professionally as Josan, as the person responsible for delivering the inaugural proclamation for the 2026 Elche Festivals. The presentation ceremony took place in the Sala del Consell of the City Hall.
Born in Crevillent on December 3, 1989, Josan began his football training in the youth ranks of Elche CF. After playing for several clubs including UD Horadada, Villajoyosa CF, Crevillente Deportivo, La Hoya Lorca, SD Huesca, UCAM Murcia, and Albacete Balompié, he returned to the 'franjiverde' team in the summer of 2017. Since then, he has become a key and representative figure in the recent history of Elche Club de Fútbol, participating in significant achievements for the club.
Josan was a fundamental player in the promotion from Segunda División B to Segunda División in 2018, and later contributed to the promotions to Primera División in 2020 and 2025. He is the only footballer to have participated in all three of the club's promotions during this period. Furthermore, he has surpassed 250 official matches for Elche CF, ranking among the players with the most appearances in the club's history.
His speed, dribbling ability, commitment, and dedication have established him as a benchmark for the fans and one of the team captains. The City Council has highlighted that Josan embodies values such as effort, perseverance, humility, and a sense of belonging, qualities that have marked his career and made him a beloved and respected figure.
“"Josan is one of the most representative players in the history of Elche CF, and talking about him is talking about hope and pride. He embodies all the values that football holds dear, such as perseverance, belonging, and profound humility."
“"I felt very proud to be the herald for the Elche Festivals. The mayor's call made me very excited, and I will approach welcoming the festivities with great feeling and affection, which I have for this city."
With this appointment, Josan will have the honor of delivering the proclamation that will kick off the 2026 Elche Festivals, a recognition of his outstanding sporting career and the strong bond he maintains with the city and its fans.
