Real Madrid president Florentino Perez announced he will seek re-election. He made this declaration during a tense press conference on May 13, 2026. Perez is seeking a new term despite the club failing to win any major trophies this season.
The club leader argued with journalists present at the event. He spoke of an "organised campaign" targeting his leadership. Perez urged his opponents to contest the election openly. His announcement follows Barcelona securing back-to-back La Liga titles. Barcelona defeated Real Madrid in their recent Clasico match.
Perez, aged 79, has led Real Madrid since June 2009. He also served as president from 2000 to 2006. Recent reports suggested he was perceived as too tired for the role. Perez vehemently denied these claims. He stated he works hard and is the last to go to bed. He highlighted the club's success under his leadership, winning 37 titles.
The Real Madrid president also criticised La Liga. He called it an "enemy" and alleged "corruption in the game, systematic." Perez expressed confidence in his re-election. He believes 100,000 club members support him. He plans to continue leading the world's biggest club. He expects strong support from the membership base.
Jose Mourinho is rumoured to be returning as head coach if Perez is re-elected. Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. Perez declined to comment on the managerial situation. The club is finishing the season without a major trophy for the second consecutive year. They won the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Trophy in 2024-25. However, this season saw Champions League quarter-final exit. Fan unrest has also marked the campaign. Issues like Kylian Mbappe's perceived effort have been debated. A dressing room argument involving Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni also occurred.
Rivals Barcelona acknowledged Perez's statements. Their legal department is studying his accusations. They are evaluating future steps. The press conference was reportedly an unusual event. Journalists were called on short notice. The atmosphere was tense and confrontational. Perez displayed visible anger and intensity throughout his address. He aimed to discredit specific media outlets and challenge narratives.