Upcoming Barcelona Presidential Elections: Laporta’s Bid and His Rivals

The upcoming presidential elections at FC Barcelona are on the horizon, with current president Joan Laporta confirming his intention to seek re-election next year. Recent reports from SPORT indicate that Laporta may call for elections as early as April 2026, prior to the conclusion of the season.

In recent statements, Laporta has been promoting his achievements, positioning himself as an essential leader for the club’s recovery during his current tenure. “We’ve made difficult decisions and worked under pressure. This year has been pivotal in the club’s recovery, and I am eager to run in the next elections,” he expressed in an interview with RAC1 back in May.

He further elaborated on his vision, stating, “I believe this project, which I have the honor of leading, deserves to continue. We made bold and sometimes controversial decisions, which have allowed us to progress and counteract the campaign of institutional discredit aimed at us, particularly from our rivals.

The registration of players was quite challenging due to the hostile reactions from those wishing for our failure. All these experiences motivate me to continue. It’s Barça’s best project because we love the club and understand what is necessary for its success.”

Victor Font, who was Laporta’s primary challenger in the last election, is anticipated to run again. Other potential candidates include Joan Camprubi Montal, Marc Ciria, and Xavi Vilajoana. Recently, Vilajoana launched his campaign with the slogan “Ready to recover our Barça,” criticizing Laporta’s leadership and outlining his vision for improvement.

“I have dedicated 21 years to the club as both a football and futsal player, and as a board member under three different presidents (Laporta, Sandro Rosell, and Josep Bartomeu). I am optimistic and fully committed; the campaign has begun, and it will be a lengthy one,” he emphasized. “The club cannot be run behind the backs of its members; our current captain is navigating without a clear plan, mired in improvisation.

If elected, I will freeze season ticket prices until the completion of Camp Nou, prioritizing our members. We can allocate 40 million euros for this within a one billion euro budget. I also have a plan to boost sponsorship revenue by 30%. We will invest in La Masia, our largest asset, which Laporta has cut back by 37%. Our future star isn’t at Manchester City; he’s at La Masia. I am deeply concerned about the state of our other sections, which are integral to our identity—women’s sports will be prominently represented if I win.

“My aim is to do what is best for Barcelona. The future is uncertain, but I strongly believe in my project. I am not against anyone; my focus is on Barça. Opposing everything is not constructive. Being president of Barça is not about distributing positions.

“Laporta’s management has been chaotic. This is not about concealing issues, but ensuring that those responsible are held accountable. An auditing process will clarify any potential illegal activities, and those who have harmed the club must be reported.

“I try not to heed the president’s remarks as they do not impact my life,” Vilajoana added. He criticized Laporta for disrespecting the members and lamented the current image of Barcelona, stating, “The club deserves much more.”

In September, Cadena SER reported that Barcelona legend Lionel Messi might influence the upcoming presidential elections, although he is not expected to endorse Laporta. Instead, he could show support for Font or Camprubi. Laporta has often been blamed for Messi’s abrupt departure from the club in 2021, with Messi’s family viewing Laporta’s decision not to renew his contract as a betrayal.

“The first person who should address Messi’s situation is Laporta,” Vilajoana stated. “If Messi hasn’t been with us for four years, it’s largely due to Laporta’s actions. Messi is an invaluable asset to the club; no one can claim ownership over the club’s assets.”

Recently, Font accused Laporta of hiding €80 million in losses, criticizing him for exacerbating the club’s already precarious financial situation. “Last year’s close reflected losses of 90 million euros. We requested a restatement due to overvalued assets, but were ignored,” Font remarked on Catalunya Radio. “This year’s accounts conceal an additional 80 million euros in losses that should have been included in last year’s figures, which has not been disclosed to the Assembly, highlighting a serious lack of transparency.”

Font has also called for expedited elections, asserting that “members will strive to maintain our social model and restore efficient and responsible management of the club.”

As it stands, Laporta faces immense pressure, and his prospects for reelection may diminish further if Barcelona fails to contend for major trophies by the time elections are upon us next year.