Real Madrid’s New President: A Fresh Vote and Big Plans

• Outcome
• Florentino Pérez: ~66% of the vote

• Enrique Riquelme: ~34%

• Turnout – over 33,000 members voted at Valdebebas

Background

• First contested election in 20 years; last held in 2006.
• Pérez called the vote in May, despite two years remaining on his term.
• Criticism mounted after two trophy‑less seasons and Barcelona clinching the league title.

Pérez’s Campaign Highlights

• “Extraordinary” win; praised club transparency.
• Claimed victory marks a historic moment with record turnout.
• Proposed subsidiary to allow outsiders limited stakes – defended as member‑owned model.
• Promised José Mourinho as head coach and a €150 million record signing.
• First acquisitions if re‑elected: Ibrahima Konaté & Denzel Dumfries.
• Financials: projected €1.19 billion revenue for 2024‑25; Forbes valuation $6.75 billion (top of football clubs).

Riquelme’s Platform

• Big‑name signings: Erling Haaland & Rodri from Manchester City.
• Turn training ground into a community hub with hotel and sports arena.
• Opposed Pérez’s subsidiary plan, labeling it “privatisation”.

Significance

• Mix of loyalty and appetite for change.
• Pérez’s long tenure (since 2000) continued uninterrupted since 2009.
• Riquelme’s effort shows members open to new ideas and greater influence.

Future Outlook

• The vote sets the stage for debates on balancing tradition with modern business practices at Real Madrid.