Perez Returns As Real Madrid President, Vows To Deliver 16th Champions League Title

Florentino Perez has secured another term as president of Real Madrid after defeating challenger Enrique Riquelme in the club’s presidential election.

The election, which took place on Sunday, reportedly extended late into the night before Perez was declared the winner shortly before midnight, ending the most fiercely contested presidential race at the club in nearly two decades.

Following the announcement of the result, Riquelme conceded defeat and congratulated the incumbent president on his victory.

Perez entered the election under increasing pressure from sections of the club’s membership following concerns over recent performances on the pitch.

The campaign unfolded against the backdrop of two consecutive seasons without a major football trophy, while the absence of Real Madrid players from the Spanish national team also fuelled debate among supporters.

Naija News understands that another major issue during the campaign was the discussion surrounding proposals to sell part of the club to external investors, a move that sparked concerns among members given Real Madrid’s long-standing tradition as a fully member-owned institution.

The controversy reportedly prompted Perez to call a snap election in a bid to reaffirm the confidence of club members in his leadership.

Despite facing strong opposition, Perez mounted an aggressive campaign in what became his first genuinely contested presidential election since 2006.

During the campaign, he announced the signings of Denzel Dumfries and Ibrahima Konaté, while also confirming the return of José Mourinho as head coach.

He further hinted that another high-profile signing would be unveiled in the coming days, a promise that generated excitement among supporters.

Perez Targets 16th Champions League Crown

Speaking during his victory press conference, Perez pledged to continue working towards maintaining Real Madrid’s status as one of the world’s leading football clubs.

The 79-year-old club president said one of his key ambitions remained delivering a record-extending 16th UEFA Champions League title.

“I am still here, and I am here to defend Real Madrid. We will continue working so that Real Madrid keeps winning titles, and we will fight until the end to achieve the sixteenth European Cup,” Perez said.

Perez also used the occasion to reassure club members that Real Madrid would retain its traditional ownership structure despite speculation about possible outside investment.

He praised the club’s iconic home ground, the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, describing it as the finest stadium in the world, while expressing delight over Mourinho’s return.

“We will continue to take pride in the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, the best stadium in the world. Proud to have the best players in the world, proud to welcome back one of the best coaches in the world, a madridista like José Mourinho.

“And rest assured, with me as president, Real Madrid has been, is, and will always remain owned by its members.

“We must stay united, driven by our passion for Real Madrid. To those who did not vote for me, I will do everything possible to address your concerns,” he stated.

Perez’s latest victory means he will begin an eighth term as president of the Spanish giants.

During his stewardship, Real Madrid has enjoyed one of the most successful periods in its history, winning 76 trophies across football and basketball competitions.

The haul includes 37 football titles and 39 basketball championships, further cementing Perez’s reputation as one of the most successful administrators in world sport.

Widely regarded as the most successful club president in European football history, Perez has overseen seven UEFA Champions League triumphs during his tenure, helping transform Real Madrid into one of the most dominant sporting institutions globally.