Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez has officially initiated the process for new elections for the club’s governing bodies, simultaneously announcing his candidacy for a new term. Addressing the media at a press conference held at the club’s training complex, the 79-year-old executive firmly rejected calls for his resignation, opting instead to seek a fresh mandate from the club’s members.
The long-standing leader justified his decision by emphasizing the importance of protecting Real Madrid’s unique member-owned model. Pérez stated that since his initial arrival in 2000, his primary mission has been to ensure that the club remains in the hands of its “socios” (members), rather than transitioning into a privately owned corporation like many of Europe’s other elite teams.
Florentino Pérez characterized the recent pressure against his leadership as an “absurd situation” orchestrated to damage the club’s interests and his personal reputation.
Addressing recent sporting setbacks that have fueled public criticism, Pérez acknowledged that while results on the pitch have fallen below expectations, the nature of sports means that victory is never guaranteed. He accused certain factions of using a temporary dip in form as a pretext for personal attacks.
Read more about this topic: From Gravesen to Valverde: How Real Madrid’s training ground violence defines the club’s internal chaos (with videos)
Furthermore, Pérez dismissed ongoing speculation regarding his physical well-being, assuring the public that he remains in “perfect health” and fully capable of continuing his leadership duties.
Florentino Pérez has been the dominant figure at Real Madrid for over two decades, serving as president since 2000 with a brief hiatus between 2006 and 2009. His tenure is marked by unprecedented commercial growth and an era of sporting dominance that includes the acquisition of seven Champions League titles. By calling for an early election, Pérez intends to consolidate his support and stifle internal dissent as the club navigates a critical period of transition.
