Spanish entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme sent an open letter to Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez on Wednesday, May 13, 2026, signaling his intent to run for the presidency [1].
The move represents a rare challenge to the leadership of one of the world's most valuable sports institutions. Riquelme, the 37-year-old [1] president of Grupo Cox, is calling for a shift toward a more participatory democratic process within the club.
In the letter addressed to the club's headquarters at the Santiago Bernabéu, Riquelme argued that the current regulated timelines do not foster sufficient participation [1]. He said the club has gone almost 20 years [1] without a participatory electoral process where members are called upon to build the future of Real Madrid together.
While some reports suggest the letter is a concrete step toward a candidacy, other sources indicate Riquelme is still weighing the decision [2]. He said he is seriously considering presenting himself for the elections [3].
Financial reports indicate that Riquelme's potential candidacy is backed by 180 million euros [4]. This capital would be essential for meeting the strict financial requirements mandated for anyone seeking the presidency of the Spanish giant.
Real Madrid has remained under the leadership of Florentino Pérez for nearly two decades. Riquelme's request for more time before the election is framed as a necessity to ensure a proper democratic selection process, one that allows for broader engagement from the club's socios.
“I am seriously considering presenting myself for the elections.”
This development marks a potential disruption to the long-term stability of the Pérez era. By emphasizing a 'participatory' process and leveraging significant financial backing, Riquelme is attempting to frame the election not just as a change in leadership, but as a systemic return to democratic engagement for the club's members.
