Florentino Perez has officially launched his latest campaign for the Real Madrid presidency with a strikingly aggressive approach, directly confronting rival candidate Enrique Riquelme and invoking the club’s contentious past, as reported by Madrid Universal. His presentation, held on May 28, 2026, was bolstered by the visible support of several Real Madrid legends, signaling a firm stance against any opposition.
Perez wasted no time in linking the rival movement to what he described as “the darkest period in Real Madrid’s history” – the era of former president Ramón Calderón. According to Madrid Universal, the Real Madrid president accused those behind the current challenge of having ulterior motives beyond serving the club.
“Now that there is an alternative candidate for the Real Madrid elections, we understand everything. We know that this campaign is being led by the very same people who were behind the darkest period in Real Madrid’s history, the Ramón Calderón era. They are the same people who were on that board of directors, the same people who, at a general meeting, stole the members’ sovereignty, the same people who brought in many people who were not Real Madrid members to vote. Now their children, brothers-in-law and executives are standing… They are not coming to serve Real Madrid; they are coming to use Real Madrid for their own ends,” Perez stated during his campaign launch.
Perez defends record, highlights club’s strength
Beyond the direct attacks, Perez vigorously defended his own tenure, emphasizing Real Madrid’s robust financial stability and unparalleled international reputation. He asserted that under his leadership, Real Madrid “is the richest club in the world” and proudly noted that the club’s organizational structure “is studied at Harvard.”
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As relayed by Madrid Universal, Perez also suggested that the decision to bring forward elections was influenced by what he sees as an organized campaign against both the club and his administration.
Looking ahead, Perez pledged to implement tougher measures against illegal ticket resale, promising that confiscated season tickets would be reallocated to ordinary supporters.
“We are fighting against resale. We are going to make them available to non-season-ticket holders,” he affirmed.
Legends rally behind president
A significant aspect of Perez’s campaign launch was the prominent display of support from club icons. Real Madrid legends Ronaldo Nazario, Roberto Carlos, and Santiago Solari were all present, lending their considerable weight to his bid.
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Ronaldo Nazario, a symbolic signing during Perez’s first “Galactico” era after joining from Inter Milan in 2002, embraced the president and offered a ringing endorsement.
“President, you are the best and you will always be the best. All the members will be very grateful for everything you have done. Hala Madrid,” Ronaldo declared.
Furthermore, Karim Benzema also publicly affirmed his support for Perez, despite not being specifically called upon for an endorsement.
Sources: madriduniversal.com
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