News Focus
- Florentino Perez calls surprise elections despite term running until 2029
- 79-year-old denies rumours about terminal illness and confirms perfect health
- Decision follows trophyless season and growing criticism from media
Florentino Perez has stunned Spanish football. The Real Madrid president announced elections on Tuesday evening during an emergency press conference.
Last year, club members confirmed the 79-year-old as president until 2029. He ran without opposition in that vote. His decision to call fresh elections comes as a shock.
Perez first led the club from 2000 to 2006. He returned to power in 2009 after removing Ramon Calderon. This marks his second spell in charge.
His leadership faced questions in Madrid this past campaign. The team finished without major silverware. However, few observers expected serious challengers to emerge.
During the conference, Perez explained his choice. He stated that 1,000 members own the club, not one person. He claimed campaigns against Real Madrid and himself created an absurd situation.
The billionaire also addressed personal attacks. He denied rumours about terminal cancer. He insisted his health remains perfect.
“If I had cancer, I would be in a hospital, not here,” he said. “I work like a dog. I wake up early and sleep late.”
Perez attacked specific media reports. He accused ABC newspaper of publishing fake news. He singled out journalist David Sánchez de Castro. The report claimed Perez said he felt tired before a board meeting.
The president faces mounting pressure after a difficult year on the pitch. Supporters grew frustrated with the lack of trophies. Perez remains defiant despite the challenges.