Florentino Pérez has officially presented his candidacy for the presidency and the Board of Directors of Real Madrid.
This move initiates the first club elections in 20 years [2], marking a significant shift in the governance of one of the world's most valuable sports institutions.
During a press conference held at the club's headquarters on Tuesday, June 5, 2024, at 6 p.m. [3], Pérez detailed his vision for the organization. The president introduced a comprehensive social plan that includes the construction of a new pavilion, a hotel, and dedicated spaces for club members, known as socios, in Valdebebas [5].
Pérez is not running unopposed. Enrique Riquelme has also presented his candidacy for the presidency [1]. Despite the challenge, Pérez expressed a firm commitment to remaining in his leadership role.
"No voy a dimitir," Pérez said [2].
In a more emphatic moment during the proceedings, Pérez highlighted his resolve regarding his position. "Me tendrán que echar a tiros," he said [2].
The voting process is scheduled to take place on June 7, 2024 [1]. Club members will cast their ballots at the Pabellón de Baloncesto de la Ciudad Real Madrid [4].
The announcement follows a period of internal deliberation regarding the club's future infrastructure and administrative structure. By calling for these elections, Pérez seeks to formalize his mandate while simultaneously proposing a physical expansion of the club's facilities to improve the experience for its members [5].
“"No voy a dimitir."”
The decision to hold elections after two decades suggests a strategic move by Pérez to legitimize his long-term leadership through a formal democratic process. By coupling his candidacy with a tangible infrastructure plan in Valdebebas, he is pivoting from purely sporting success to institutional growth, effectively raising the stakes for any challenger who cannot offer a similar scale of investment.
