Florentino Pérez Calls for Real Madrid Elections Following Targeted Campaigns

Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez has formally announced that he has asked the club’s Board of Directors to initiate an electoral process. While facing intense scrutiny and personal rumors, Pérez confirmed he will not resign and instead intends to participate in the upcoming elections to seek another term.

A Strategic Move Amidst Growing Criticism

The decision to call for elections comes at a turbulent time for the club’s leadership. Speaking to the media at the Ciudad Real Madrid following a Board of Directors meeting, Pérez characterized the current climate as an “absurd situation” driven by organized campaigns. He claimed these campaigns are designed to generate negative opinion against the interests of Real Madrid and his personal leadership.

Pérez noted that while the club has faced periods of less-than-ideal sporting results, these fluctuations are a natural part of sports. However, he argued that critics are exploiting these moments to launch personal attacks. He reaffirmed his commitment to the club’s unique structure, emphasizing that since 2000, he has worked to ensure that Real Madrid remains owned by its 100,000 members rather than a single individual.

Addressing Health Rumors and Personal Attacks

A significant portion of Pérez’s address was dedicated to refuting recent rumors regarding his physical well-being. The president addressed specific claims circulating about his health, including unfounded rumors regarding terminal cancer.

“I would like to reassure those concerned about me that every day I continue to preside over Real Madrid and my company,” Pérez stated, dismissing the rumors as fabrications. To underscore his fitness for both roles, he pointed to his ongoing leadership of his infrastructure company, which employs 170,000 people and maintains an annual turnover of 50 billion.

“My health is perfect because I couldn’t manage both roles without being in perfect health,” he asserted, questioning why such rumors were being circulated if they were not being reported by global news outlets.

Key Takeaways from the Announcement

• Electoral Process: The Real Madrid Board of Directors has been asked to initiate elections for the Board.
• Intent to Run: Florentino Pérez will not be stepping down; he intends to run for re-election.
• Response to Criticism: Pérez claims the call for elections is a response to campaigns aimed at undermining the club and his presidency.
• Health Clarification: The president explicitly denied rumors of serious illness, citing his active management of his global business interests as evidence of his health.

Looking Ahead

The upcoming elections will serve as a critical litmus test for Pérez’s leadership and the direction of Real Madrid. By calling for a vote, Pérez is attempting to move past the current “current of opinion” and re-establish his mandate directly through the club’s membership. As the electoral process begins, the focus will shift to how the 100,000 members respond to his vision for the club’s future.