Official: Real Madrid Presidential Race Set for First Time in 20 Years

For the first time in nearly 20 years, Real Madrid is set to hold presidential elections with at least two candidates, as challenger Enrique Riquelme met today's deadline to publicly announce his candidacy, which he did.

He had already informed the Electoral Commission of his intention 48 hours prior, as required by regulations. In recent days, Riquelme has been negotiating to secure a bank guarantee, after Spanish banks, specifically Banco de Santander and BBVA, reportedly denied him support. According to sources from the Cox group's candidacy, led by Riquelme, this was due to strong pressure from Florentino Pérez's inner circle.

“Today is a very important day for Real Madrid. After 20 years, we will finally be able to vote. This is not a candidacy against anyone, but for the sake of Real Madrid. We have worked hard to create a serious and exciting project, both in sporting and social aspects. You will see a project that will captivate you. Today is a day to enjoy these elections and vote for the best project,” Riquelme stated upon leaving the “Ciudad Real Madrid” club facilities.

“I urge members not to be afraid, but to be brave and listen to us. Our project has been developed with short-term, medium-term, and long-term plans in mind. Once the Electoral Commission officially declares us candidates, we will be available 24/7 to present all our projects,” Enrique Riquelme concluded.

The last contested vote for the top position at the Bernabéu took place in 2006, when Ramón Calderón won against four other candidates: Juan Palacios, Juan Miguel Villar Mir, Lorenzo Sanz, and Arturo Baldasano. In 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021, and January 2025, Florentino Pérez was automatically re-elected due to a lack of other candidates.

Ultimately, Enrique Riquelme had to turn to Andbank España to personally guarantee the sum of 193.7 million euros, equivalent to 15% of Real Madrid's budget, with his personal assets. He also meets the other requirements, including being a club member (socio) for over 20 years. This condition was introduced after a change in the statutes, proposed by Florentino Pérez's board and approved by the General Assembly, aimed at raising the requirements for presidential candidates. The change was upheld by the court despite an appeal from businessman Vicente Boluda.