Real Madrid set for 1st Presidential Election in 20 years
New Delhi, May 24
Real Madrid will hold presidential elections for the first time in two decades after the club's electoral commission approved businessman Enrique Riquelme's candidacy to challenge long-serving president Florentino Perez.
Perez, 79, called for elections earlier this month in a bid to reaffirm support from club members following a disappointing campaign in which Real Madrid failed to win a major trophy for the second consecutive season, as per ESPN.
Enrique Riquelme had announced on Thursday his intention to contest the elections before formally submitting his candidacy in person on Saturday at Ciudad Real Madrid in Madrid's Valdebebas district.
"It's an important day for Real Madrid, after 20 years, we'll be able to vote. It isn't a candidacy against anyone. It's in favour of Madrid. We have an exciting project. I'd ask the members not to be afraid," Riquelme told journalists.
In Madrid's last five electoral cycles, in 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021 and 2025, Perez was elected unopposed.
The club's electoral commission must now set a date within two weeks for members to cast their votes.
Real Madrid ended their La Liga campaign with a 4-2 victory over Athletic Club on Saturday, with both Florentino Perez and Enrique Riquelme in attendance at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a Real Madrid fan in Bangalore, this feels surreal. Perez has given us so many UCL titles but two trophyless seasons in a row... maybe it's time for change? Riquelme's "don't be afraid" line was smart—he knows people fear rocking the boat.
Honestly, this is bigger news in India than people realize. Real Madrid is a religion here. 🙌 But Perez had it coming—no trophies for 2 years is unacceptable for a club of this stature. Riquelme needs to show concrete plans, not just slogans!
I understand wanting stability, but 20 years unchallenged is too long. Even we in India have term limits for our sports bodies! 😅 Hope this election brings accountability. But let's be real—Perez's financial record is hard to beat. Tough choice.
Finally, some democracy at the Bernabeu! But Riquelme needs to be careful—Perez has deep pockets and connections. I remember when Perez came in 2000 and transformed the club. However, complacency sets in after 20 years. Good to have an election! 🇮🇳⚽
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.