Rafael Nadal Joins Real Madrid Board of Directors, Pending Assembly Vote

Rafael Nadal has accepted a place on the Real Madrid board of directors, the club announced on Wednesday, 4 November 2026. The board met that day and agreed to put Nadal’s appointment to the General Assembly of Delegate Members for ratification. The tennis great, a lifelong Madrid supporter, confirmed his acceptance on social media, thanking President Florentino Pérez and the board for the invitation.

The appointment is not yet final. Nadal will be voted on at an extraordinary assembly on Saturday, 21 November, and the board has unanimously recommended approval.

What the Club Said

Real Madrid’s statement described Nadal as a figure of “sporting and human stature” and a benchmark of Spanish and world sport. The club said his presence on the board would contribute to the present and future of the club.

Nadal responded in similar terms, saying he had accepted the proposal with great enthusiasm, a desire to learn and a willingness to contribute as much as he can.

Key Details at a Glance

A Lifelong Madrid Supporter

Nadal comes from Manacor on the island of Mallorca, and he has said he grew up supporting Real Madrid. His uncle, Miguel Ángel Nadal, played for Barcelona between 1991 and 1999, making 268 appearances for the Catalan club, which makes the family’s support for Madrid notable.

The club named Nadal an honorary member in 2011, a distinction usually reserved for direct relatives of current members. His appointment to the board is therefore the next step in a long connection with the club.

Nadal’s Tennis Career

Nadal retired from professional tennis in 2024, after a career that included 22 Grand Slam singles titles and a record 14 French Open crowns. His achievements have made him one of the most recognised Spanish sportspeople in the world.

The appointment is his first formal role inside the club, according to reports, and it gives him a place in the management structure of one of world football’s largest clubs.

Nadal and the Club’s Future

Nadal has previously spoken about the possibility of one day standing for the presidency of Real Madrid. In an interview with ESPN, he said he would like to take on the challenge, but he also said the current president had the club well in hand and that the idea was distant.

Reports have linked the board appointment to wider speculation about Pérez’s eventual successor, although no succession plan has been announced by the club.

Other Roles Floated

Spanish media had floated other possibilities for Nadal, including a role as captain of Spain’s Davis Cup team. Reports say the board position could affect whether he takes on such a role, because of the time commitment.

What Happens Next

The next key step is the General Assembly vote on 21 November. If approved, Nadal will officially take up his seat on the board. The club’s members will also have a say on the appointment, as it is ratified by the assembly rather than the board alone.

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