Raul Mas Canosa, a Cuban-American entrepreneur and the younger brother of the prominent exile leader Jorge Mas Canosa, spoke out on Friday about his brother's vision for Cuba: to restore democracy, free political prisoners, and build bridges between the diaspora and Cubans on the island, all without any intention of revenge or reclaiming property.
In a conversation with Tania Costa for CiberCuba, Raul Mas Canosa was unequivocal about his brother's legacy. "These are the things Jorge wanted to see in Cuba: to restore democracy, not to seize someone's property or pursue other agendas," he asserted. The aim, he emphasized, was different: "It was about helping, truly uniting the two communities, those in exile with the Cubans on the island."
The Cuban-American banker and analyst outlined the agenda his brother Jorge Mas Canosa would have championed in a transitioning Cuba: rebuilding democratic institutions, freeing all political prisoners, and holding free elections. "He would have wanted to go to Cuba to rebuild, to recreate the institutions a democratic country needs, to free political prisoners," he noted.
Raul Mas Canosa firmly dismissed any suggestion that his nephews—Jorge Mas Santos and José Mas Santos, sons of Jorge Mas Canosa and co-owners of Inter Miami CF alongside David Beckham—are motivated by financial interests in Cuba. "They don't need an extra cent. They have enough money to last not just a lifetime but perhaps for ten lifetimes," he declared.
Highlighting the family's business success, he referenced their soccer club: "They've also achieved incredible success with the soccer team, with Inter Miami, with Leo Messi. That today also has extraordinary value." If his nephews think about Cuba, he said, it is for reasons other than money: "People aren't going to Cuba because they need the money; they go because they feel a moral obligation to rebuild what their father would have wanted."
Raul Mas Canosa also spoke personally about the emotional bond that connects Cuban exiles to the island. "Those of us who grew up here (in the United States) also feel that Cuba is part of our DNA," he stated.
The entrepreneur described a renewed sense of optimism among Cuban-Americans in Miami. "There are many people in this community, different groups here that are indeed studying the case of Cuba. It has reactivated because for a long time, it was uncertain when any change would occur, but now people are much more encouraged," he pointed out.
This optimism aligns with a period of intense activity in exile. In March 2026, various organizations signed the "Liberation Agreement" in Miami, a roadmap for Cuba's democratization, and in June, the Cuban opposition ratified a four-phase transition plan in Madrid. The key points of the plan that Jorge Mas Canosa left for Cuba were also published at the beginning of this year, amid the debate about the island's future.
Raul Mas Canosa was careful, however, not to portray his family as the sole voice in this process. "There are several conversations. No one has a monopoly, not even my nephews claim to have a monopoly," he concluded.
Frequently Asked Questions about Raul Mas Canosa's Vision for Cuba
What was Jorge Mas Canosa's vision for Cuba?
Jorge Mas Canosa's vision for Cuba included restoring democracy, liberating political prisoners, and fostering unity between the Cuban diaspora and those on the island without seeking revenge or reclaiming property.
Why do Raul Mas Canosa's nephews have an interest in Cuba?
Raul Mas Canosa's nephews are interested in Cuba not for financial gain, but because they feel a moral obligation to rebuild the country in line with their father's vision.
What indicates renewed optimism among Cuban-Americans regarding Cuba?
There is renewed optimism among Cuban-Americans as various groups study Cuba's situation, and recent initiatives like the "Liberation Agreement" and transition plans suggest potential change.