Florentino Perez has secured another term as Real Madrid president, capturing 65 per cent of the vote in an election against challenger Enrique Riquelme. This result marks the first time in 20 years that club members have cast ballots for the presidency, as Perez had previously run unopposed in five electoral cycles held between 2009 and 2025.
Why did Perez call for an early election?
Despite holding a mandate valid until 2029, Perez announced the snap election during a press conference on May 12. According to his statements, he sought a show of support following two consecutive seasons without a major trophy and claimed he was facing a campaign from enemies “in the shadows” who wanted him removed. The 79-year-old, who leads both the club and the civil engineering firm ACS Group, aimed to solidify his authority at the Bernabeu through this electoral mandate.
Real Madrid remains one of only four Spanish clubs—alongside Barcelona, Athletic Club, and Osasuna—that are still owned by their members rather than private shareholders.
What is the future of Real Madrid’s leadership?
While Perez won the election, his challenger, 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme, used the campaign to highlight concerns regarding Perez’s proposal to sell a portion of the club to external investors. Riquelme framed the election as a “referendum” on the club’s ownership model. Although defeated, Riquelme characterized the result as the “beginning of a journey” and signaled an intent to continue defending the member-owned structure of the club.
How will Jose Mourinho’s return impact the club?
Perez has confirmed that Jose Mourinho will return as manager, a move intended to stabilize the team after recent performance struggles. The appointment comes with significant financial implications. According to reports, the delay caused by the election process means the club will pay a €15 million release clause to Benfica, rather than the €6 million break clause that was valid until May 29. Mourinho is expected to arrive with a full coaching staff, including assistants Joao Tralhao and Pedro Machado.
What are the plans for the upcoming transfer window?
Real Madrid is preparing for a high-stakes transfer period to address squad depth issues in defense and midfield. Perez has publicly promised a club-record bid of €150 million for a “total galactico” who does not currently play in the Premier League. Additionally, the club has confirmed the free transfer of Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool and reached a deal to sign Denzel Dumfries from Inter, according to statements made by the president.
Keep an eye on the club’s defensive transitions this summer. With the contracts of Dani Carvajal and David Alaba expiring at the end of June, the new manager will need to integrate these high-profile signings quickly to maintain competitiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long has Florentino Perez served as president? Perez is the longest-serving president in the club’s history. He first held the post from 2000 to 2006, and returned to the role in 2009 following the resignation of Ramon Calderon.
- Who were the candidates in the 2026 election? The election featured incumbent Florentino Perez and challenger Enrique Riquelme.
- What happens to the club’s ownership? Real Madrid remains member-owned. Riquelme’s campaign specifically focused on preventing the sale of the club to external investment groups.
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