Members of Real Madrid are participating in the club’s first presidential elections in two decades this Sunday, deciding between long-time president Florentino Pérez and entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme.
Pérez, 79, who has served as president since 2009 and previously from 2000 to 2006, called for the elections last month to seek a renewal of support after a second consecutive season without winning a major trophy.
Riquelme, 37, a renewable energy executive, is challenging Pérez and has expressed his intention to approach Jürgen Klopp for the coaching position as well as to bring in Erling Haaland and Rodri if he wins the election.
On Thursday, Pérez promised to make a €150 million ($172.82 million) offer for an unnamed “Galáctico” if re-elected, and he has already announced the return of José Mourinho as coach alongside the signings of Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries.
As of 1 p.m. local time on Sunday, with polling open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., 12,651 members had cast their votes at the Valdebebas training facility, accounting for 16.82% of the total membership.
Pérez voted just before 10 a.m., taking photos with members, while Riquelme arrived at the club’s basketball pavilion, temporarily set up as an election center, an hour later.
Real Madrid remains one of four member-owned clubs in Spain.
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In the previous five elections in 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025, Pérez faced no opposition and was re-elected unchallenged.
To qualify as candidates, individuals must meet rigorous criteria, including being club members for at least 20 years and securing 15% of the club’s annual budget.
If re-elected, Pérez has proposed to sell 5% of Real Madrid to an external investor, stating that this move is essential to determine the club’s true market value.
“After 20 years, we can vote,” Riquelme said to reporters following his vote. “These are not just ordinary elections. It’s a referendum.”