Florentino Perez rejected resignation talk and called Real Madrid elections after another trophyless season at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has rejected speculation surrounding his future and officially called elections at the club. The 79-year-old addressed the media during a heated press conference following another disappointing campaign for the Spanish giants.
Perez insisted he has no plans to resign despite increasing criticism from supporters and sections of the Spanish media. The announcement came just days after Barcelona secured the LaLiga title with a Clasico victory over Madrid.
The Real Madrid president appeared visibly frustrated throughout the press conference and repeatedly challenged journalists over reports questioning his leadership. Perez stated clearly that he would stand again in the upcoming election process.
He also invited potential challengers to contest the presidency openly rather than criticising the club anonymously through media outlets. Perez insisted he remained fully committed to defending the interests of Real Madrid members. The long-serving president said rumours suggesting he was tired or preparing to step aside were false. Perez stressed that he remained active in the daily running of the club and dismissed suggestions regarding his health.
Madrid’s disappointing season has increased pressure around the club hierarchy. The team failed to win a major trophy for a second consecutive campaign and also exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage against Bayern Munich.
Barcelona’s recent title triumph further intensified frustration among supporters. Sections of the Bernabeu crowd have also booed several players this season, including Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe. Perez acknowledged fan disappointment but defended his overall record as president. He highlighted the club’s success during his tenure, including multiple Champions League and LaLiga titles across football and basketball.
Perez refused to discuss speculation linking Jose Mourinho with a return to the club. Reports in Spain have suggested the Portuguese coach could emerge as a leading candidate after the current season. However, Perez repeatedly avoided questions regarding coaching decisions and insisted the election process was the current priority. He also declined to discuss individual players or future sporting plans.
The president instead focused heavily on criticism directed at LaLiga, referees and sections of the media. Perez accused several groups of attempting to damage both his reputation and the club’s stability.
Real Madrid’s electoral commission has now formally opened the presidential election process. Candidates have until May 23 to present their applications before campaigning begins. Perez has faced no opposition in several previous elections, though businessman Enrique Riquelme is considering entering the race. Club rules require candidates to meet strict financial and membership conditions before approval.
Perez first became Real Madrid president in 2000 before returning to office in 2009 after a brief absence. Since then, Madrid have won seven Champions League titles and seven LaLiga crowns under his leadership.
Perez remained the central figure throughout a tense 75-minute appearance that included several exchanges with journalists. His emotional defence of his presidency reflected growing unrest around the club after two difficult seasons. Jose Mourinho’s possible return also continued to dominate discussion despite Perez refusing to engage publicly on the matter. Fan frustration remains high heading into the final weeks of the campaign.
Real Madrid conclude their LaLiga season with two fixtures remaining against Sevilla and Athletic Club before attention fully shifts towards the presidential election and plans for next season.
