MADRID — For the first time in two decades, Real Madrid will conduct presidential elections after the club’s electoral commission accepted businessman Enrique Riquelme’s candidacy, challenging current president Florentino Pérez.
Pérez, 79, announced the elections earlier this month, seeking reaffirmation from club members following a challenging season devoid of major trophies for the second consecutive year.
Riquelme publicly declared his intention to run on Thursday, officially submitting his candidacy in Madrid’s Valdebebas offices on Saturday. “Today is significant for Real Madrid; after two decades, we’ll have the chance to vote,” Riquelme stated to reporters. “This candidacy isn’t against anyone; it’s in support of Madrid. We have an exciting project … I encourage members not to be afraid.”
In the last five election cycles, held in 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021, and 2025, Pérez was re-elected unopposed, eliminating the necessity for a vote.
The electoral commission now has two weeks to schedule a date for members to cast their votes.
Recently, Madrid triumphed over Athletic Club, winning 4-2 in their last La Liga match of the season, attended by both Pérez and Riquelme at the Bernabéu.
Pérez’s campaign previously unveiled a large banner on a nearby residential building, highlighting the seven cities where Madrid has won the Champions League during his tenure, accompanied by the slogan, “A lot of history to make. Florentino 2026.”
– Carvajal reflects on the ‘end of an era’ in Madrid farewell
– Sources: Major changes anticipated at Madrid with Mourinho’s arrival
Madrid concluded the La Liga season in second place, trailing champions Barcelona by eight points. Coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January, has already announced his departure.
ESPN has reported that José Mourinho has verbally agreed to succeed him, although when his appointment will be officially announced remains uncertain due to the ongoing election process.