Florentino Perez takes the spoils in Real Madrid presidential election | OneFootball

Florentino Perez will remain as president of Real Madrid, having defeated Enrique Riquelme in the 2026 presidential election. The 79-year-old, who called for the first vote in 20 years, will continue in the position he has held since 2009.

After strong criticism came his way on the back of a second season in a row without a major trophy, Perez furiously called for an election. Enrique Riquelme was confirmed to run against him, setting up the first presidential vote since 2006 – and despite the promises of signing Erling Haaland and Jurgen Klopp, the challenger has missed out.

Diario AS have confirmed Perez’s victory, with Riquelme conceding defeat in a short speech to his followers.

“Congratulations to Florentino because he got the victory. Also to the members of Real Madrid who have been able to vote. It is a great victory for this candidacy. For us, this is not the end, it is the beginning. Real Madrid is not going to go 20 years without another election. The members of Real Madrid who are going to continue voting for four years. A respect for the legacy and reaching out to the debate that we have not had. The best thing is to listen to the member. A pleasure to be with you.”

Perez victory will allow trio of deals to be completed

Image via EFE

With Perez taking the spoils, it means that Jose Mourinho can now be confirmed as Real Madrid’s new manager. The Portuguese returns to the Bernabeu 13 years after his first spell in charge, as he aims to get the club out of the rut they have been in over the last couple of seasons.

Perez’s victory also means that pre-agreed deals for Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries will be finalised, while he can also press ahead with plans to submit a club-record bid to sign Michael Olise from Bayern Munich.