Real Madrid presidential elections will take place on Sunday, June 7, 2026, marking the first contested vote at the club in two decades.
The electoral committee confirmed that current president Florentino Perez will face businessman Enrique Riquelme in a direct contest for the leadership of the Spanish giants.
The announcement formally launches an unprecedented campaign in the club’s modern history, as members prepare to vote between two candidates for the first time since 2006.
Official announcement and voting details
In an official statement published on its website, Real Madrid confirmed that voting will run continuously from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the basketball arena in Real Madrid City.
The election represents a departure from recent cycles in which Perez was reappointed without opposition. The last contested election occurred in 2006, when Ramon Calderon won after Perez withdrew from the race.
Riquelme clears financial hurdle
Criticism of Bernabeu management
Enrique Riquelme successfully met the financial guarantee required under the club’s statutes, enabling the electoral committee to formally approve his candidacy.
In recent days, Riquelme has intensified his criticism of the current administration, focusing on:
The management of the renovated Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
Relations with club members
What he described as limited institutional debate
He also hinted at upcoming announcements on both sporting and social fronts, referring to potential agreements with two international stars without disclosing names.
Perez seeks new mandate under continuity banner
Florentino Perez is expected to officially submit his candidacy under the slogan “A great history yet to be written,” relying on the sporting successes and financial stability achieved during his previous terms.
Perez’s tenure has included multiple domestic and European titles, as well as the modernization of club infrastructure, most notably the redevelopment of the Santiago Bernabeu.
Impact on coach appointment and transfers
The Real Madrid presidential elections are directly influencing sporting planning for next season. Key decisions, including the appointment of a new head coach and several transfer market moves, have reportedly been put on hold pending the election outcome.
Among the names linked to the managerial position is Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, as speculation grows about the direction the club will take following the vote.
Dani Carvajal prepares for next step
Separately, Dani Carvajal confirmed that he does not intend to retire after concluding his career with Real Madrid, stating that he plans to continue playing while keeping all options open.
Carvajal played his final match in a Real Madrid shirt against Athletic Bilbao at the Santiago Bernabeu, ending a 32‑year association with the club. During his time, he won 27 titles, including:
Six UEFA Champions League trophies
Four La Liga titles
The Spanish defender said he will take time over the summer before deciding his next destination, noting that family and sporting considerations will guide his choice.
Media reports suggest several possible options, including a move to Italian side Como, a stint in the Qatari league with Al‑Gharafa, or a return to Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.
Conclusion:
The upcoming Real Madrid presidential elections represent a pivotal moment for one of the world’s most successful clubs. With Perez defending his record and Riquelme campaigning for change, the outcome is expected to shape both the administrative and sporting future of the Spanish side.
