Barcelona Presidential Race Heats Up: Laporta and Font Clash Over Xavi and Messi

The race for the Barcelona presidency is intensifying, marked by increasingly sharp exchanges between incumbent Joan Laporta and challenger Victor Font. Recent accusations from former manager Xavi Hernández have fueled the conflict, with both Laporta and Font weighing in and Lionel Messi’s name resurfacing in the debate.

Laporta Defends His Record, Criticizes Xavi

During a debate with Font on March 9, 2026, Laporta responded strongly to Xavi’s claims of being undermined during his tenure. Laporta asserted that Hansi Flick is positioned for success with the same squad that struggled under Xavi, stating, “With Xavi I felt we were going to lose, and with Flick I perceive we are going to win. With the same players, Flick wins.” Yahoo Sports

Laporta similarly accused Xavi of dissatisfaction with the team and referees, and of seeking changes among key players. He further stated that Xavi approached him in March 2023 expressing a desire to return, but Jorge Messi informed him in May 2023 that Lionel Messi preferred a move to Miami due to concerns about pressure. Goal.com

Font Calls for Transparency, Urges Messi to Speak Out

Victor Font has criticized Laporta’s administration for what he describes as a “smokescreen” regarding Lionel Messi’s potential return to the club in 2023. He believes members are being misled and that the true circumstances of Messi’s departure should be revealed. Goal.com

Font publicly appealed to Messi to clarify the situation, stating, “Explain the truth – about his departure from the club and his attempt to return to the entity in 2023 – so that the members will not vote deceived and with a smokescreen of the illusion that Hansi Flick and the young people generate for us.” Goal.com He also accused Laporta of labeling Xavi and Messi as disloyal to the club. Yahoo Sports

Xavi’s Allegations and Laporta’s Response

The controversy originated with Xavi’s allegations that Laporta’s camp had been negotiating with Hansi Flick behind his back while he was still manager. Xavi also claimed a media campaign was initiated against him, and that Flick personally apologized for the situation. Yahoo Sports

Laporta dismissed Xavi’s claims, defending his close advisor, Alejandro Echevarría, against accusations of undue influence. He emphasized the importance of having trusted advisors and working in harmony with the sporting director, Deco. Blaugranagram

A Deepening Divide

The escalating conflict highlights a deep divide within the club as the presidential election on March 15 approaches. The debate has shifted focus away from sporting matters and towards internal power struggles. Yahoo Sports