A debate has flared up in Madrid, touching not only private club owners but the city’s entire elite circle. The cause was a statement from Íñigo Onieva, one of the co-owners of the new Casa Vega club, who expressed reluctance to see too many Latin Americans among the club’s members. His remarks sparked a strong reaction within the business community and among migrants, raising questions about how open such clubs are to new members.
As El Pais notes, many influential Latin Americans living in Madrid were surprised and angered by Onieva’s position. Among them was entrepreneur Verónica Durán, who believes that it was the influx of wealthy migrants from Latin America that became a key driver in the growth of Madrid’s elite clubs. In her view, new venues have emerged thanks to demand from those who want to integrate into Spain’s high society while maintaining ties with their compatriots.
Market response
In recent years, Madrid has seen the opening of clubs such as Forbes House, a new club in the Metrópolis building, Casa Vega, and the soon-to-open Soho House. Initiation fees for these venues can reach €10,000–15,000, with monthly dues sometimes exceeding €2,000. Casa Vega, for example, charges €2,400 per month. Despite the high prices, demand for membership remains strong, and the diversity of nationalities among clients continues to grow.
Among club owners and managers, the prevailing view is that a diverse clientele benefits the business. Manuel Campos Guallar, co-owner of Casa Vega, emphasizes that clubs bring together people of different professions, ages, and nationalities. He believes that Madrid’s cosmopolitan character makes such venues attractive to a broad audience. Daniela Goicoechea, a marketing specialist, adds that the sense of belonging to an exclusive community has become an important factor for clients.
The impact of migration
The question of migrants’ role in Madrid’s elite life goes beyond the club scene. Sergio Contreras, president of Refugiados sin fronteras, notes that many Spanish fortunes were built through emigration to Latin America. Now, he says, society is concerned that migrants not only compete for jobs but also claim spaces in leisure and real estate sectors.
Experts note that Madrid is becoming increasingly attractive to wealthy foreigners. According to El Pais, the city leads Spain in foreign direct investment, with major hotel chains investing in premium tourism development. This has led to an increase in affluent visitors and higher demand for exclusive services.
Changes in club culture
Even traditional clubs such as Club Financiero note the positive impact of international exchange. The club’s president, Arturo de las Heras, and manager Arrate Oromí emphasize that their establishment collaborates with hundreds of clubs around the world, allowing guests from other countries to feel welcome. Andrés Rodríguez, director of Forbes House, believes that bringing together the Spanish and Latin American elite opens new opportunities for business and networking.
Club members confirm that nationality is not a barrier to joining. One Colombian entrepreneur, who wished to remain anonymous, shared that he is a member of three elite clubs in Madrid and has not faced discrimination. According to him, different clubs serve different purposes—from business meetings to informal gatherings.
Context and trends
In recent years, Spain has increasingly discussed the integration of migrants into elite circles. The emergence of new private clubs and the rising number of foreign members reflect changes in the city’s business landscape and social life. Analysts note that such debates are taking place not only in Madrid but also in other European capitals, where competition for exclusive services is growing. In 2025, similar debates erupted in London and Paris, with discussions focusing on the role of migrants in shaping new elite communities.
