News Focus
- Florentino Perez faces his first election contest at Real Madrid in 21 years
- Businessman Enrique Riquelme intends to challenge the long-serving president
- Candidates must provide a bank guarantee of roughly €187 million
- The registration deadline for hopefuls is Saturday, 23 May
- Club members could vote on 7 June if a second candidate confirms his bid
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez will contest an election for the first time in over two decades. The 77-year-old has called fresh polls, ending 20 years of unchallenged leadership at the Bernabeu.
Enrique Riquelme, an energy sector magnate, appears ready to stand against the incumbent. The challenger has stated he meets the strict financial criteria required to run for the position.
Spanish football clubs impose tough entry rules for presidential candidates. Any hopeful must hold Spanish nationality, maintain 15 years of club membership, and deposit a bank guarantee equal to 15 per cent of the annual budget. This currently amounts to approximately €187 million.
Perez has won the previous five elections without opposition. However, Riquelme recently told Diario AS that he possesses the necessary funds. “Of course I have the guarantee,” he explained. “If I did not, I would not be discussing this matter.”
The businessman added that he will reach a final decision within the next two or three days. He aims to build a “sporting project” that serves the club well for the next 10 to 20 years.
Some analysts view Perez’s sudden election call as an attempt to intimidate Riquelme. Despite this, multiple sources indicate the challenger has already resolved to proceed with his campaign.
Candidates must submit their papers by Saturday 23 May. If Riquelme formally enters the race, the election process will commence on 25 May. Members would then likely cast their ballots on 7 June.