Real Madrid President Florentino Perez Calls Elections After Trophyless Season

In a tense and highly unusual press conference at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas training complex on May 12, 2026, club president Florentino Pérez announced that he is calling for presidential elections following one of the most disappointing seasons in the club’s modern history. The 79-year-old leader, who has been at the helm since 2009 (with an earlier term from 2000-2006), confirmed he will not resign and will stand for re-election alongside his current board of directors.

Pérez used the platform to lash out at sections of the media and what he described as an “organised campaign” against him and the club, urging any potential challengers to “not move in the shadows” and contest the elections openly. The move comes amid growing speculation about his future after Real Madrid ended the 2025/26 campaign without a single major trophy—the second consecutive trophyless season.

A Disappointing 2025/26 Campaign

Real Madrid began the season with high expectations but quickly encountered difficulties. Managerial changes, tactical inconsistencies, and internal tensions contributed to a campaign that ended in frustration. The team finished second in La Liga, defeated 2-0 by rivals Barcelona in the decisive El Clásico that confirmed the title loss. In Europe, they exited the UEFA Champions League in the quarter-finals against Bayern Munich. Domestically, they suffered an early Copa del Rey exit and lost the Supercopa de España final to Barcelona.

2025/26 Season Performance Table

Dressing-room issues, including reported tensions and a high-profile training-ground incident, added to the narrative of a turbulent year. Despite the presence of stars such as Kylian Mbappé, the squad failed to deliver the expected results, leading to widespread fan disappointment.

Florentino Pérez: Long-Serving Leader Facing Scrutiny

Florentino Pérez has overseen a transformative era at Real Madrid, including the Galácticos signings of the early 2000s and the club’s record haul of Champions League titles in the modern period. He has also driven the ambitious renovation of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, boosting commercial revenue. Under his leadership, Real Madrid has maintained its status as one of the world’s most valuable and successful clubs while preserving its member-owned (socio) model.

However, the recent lack of silverware has intensified criticism. Pérez addressed rumours about his health directly, denying any serious illness, and emphasised his determination to continue. “I’m here to say I’m not going anywhere and I’m here to stand for election,” he stated during the press conference.

Key Achievements Under Florentino Pérez (2009–Present)

The call for elections—expected to be organised within weeks—represents a defensive yet democratic move. Pérez has invited open competition, reinforcing the club’s socio model where members (socios) ultimately decide the leadership.

What Happens Next?

Elections will be organised by the club’s electoral committee, with the current board standing as candidates. The process will allow Real Madrid’s approximately 100,000 members to vote on the club’s direction at a critical juncture. Key priorities for the coming months will include a major squad rebuild, potential managerial decisions, and ensuring the club regains its trophy-winning ways in 2026/27.

The announcement has sparked intense debate among fans, former players, and analysts. While some view it as a necessary reset, others see it as an opportunity for fresh leadership. Pérez’s long tenure has delivered unprecedented success, but the current trophyless streak has tested patience.

As the electoral process unfolds, Real Madrid’s future direction will be shaped by this democratic vote. The club’s rich history, world-class academy, and global fanbase provide a strong foundation for recovery, regardless of the outcome.

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