Barcelona Presidential Election Pre-Campaign: Key Candidates Emerge

The pre-campaign for the presidency of FC Barcelona has indirectly commenced. Although no official date for the elections has been set, several pre-candidates have recently made their intentions known. Currently, the club’s members are aware of five potential options: Som un Clam, Nosaltres, Xavier Vilajoana, Moviment 42, and Joan Laporta.

The upcoming year will be significantly influenced by these elections, which are expected to take place between March 15 and June 15, with a preference for April. Upon the official announcement, candidates will have 40 days to gather the necessary signatures to formalize their candidacies. The last elections were held on March 17, 2021, where members chose among three candidates: Laporta, Víctor Font, and Toni Freixa. MARCA provides an overview of the current electoral landscape.

On May 16, following Barcelona’s LaLiga title victory, Joan Laporta stepped forward to announce his candidacy for re-election. His goal is to continue his presidency for another five years to complete the economic, social, and sports roadmap he began in 2021. The lawyer has notably increased his public appearances and statements in recent weeks, capitalizing on the club’s successful season and his harmonious relationship with coach Hansi Flick. Additionally, he has taken a more assertive stance, making pointed remarks against Real Madrid.

Víctor Font, well-known among FC Barcelona members, re-emerged on November 18 with his project Nosaltres, which aims to unite various member platforms in a bid to challenge Laporta. He outlined five key objectives: to restore the club’s identity, return prominence to the members, establish a well-managed and honest Barça, defend the club’s core values and heritage, and leave a legacy for the next generation. Notably, Xavi Hernández attended the presentation of this candidacy.

Former executive Xavier Vilajoana, who was a candidate in the 2021 elections but did not qualify, announced on November 27 his intention to run for the presidency once more. He initiated a campaign called Veus del Barça, traveling across Catalonia to gather firsthand opinions from club members. Vilajoana emphasized the need to prioritize members and fans, stating that the club has been managed like a family business for too long and must now adopt a more professional approach.

Marc Ciria made his intentions known on December 16, after months of behind-the-scenes planning. His initiative, Moviment 42, launched under the slogan ‘It’s Time to Restart,’ highlighted the crucial need for Lionel Messi’s return to help the club overcome its financial challenges. His electoral program focuses on three pillars: preserving the ownership model, restoring the essence of ‘més que un club,’ and ensuring financial competitiveness against state clubs, while also valuing La Masia.

Finally, Joan Camprubí introduced his candidacy, Som un Clam, in October of last year. He described his movement as more than just a platform for change; it embodies a shared sentiment among those who cherish Barça. He is the grandson of Agustí Montal Costa, a former president of the club, and has recently advocated for a united, cross-sectional candidacy to oppose Laporta.