Florentino Perez settles the debate: No resignation, I will run for another term
In a crucial press conference, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez put an end to recent rumors about his potential resignation, especially after the first team finished its second consecutive season without a major title. Pérez confirmed he would remain in his position, while simultaneously announcing that he would call for new board elections, in which he intends to run again.
Perez's presidency background and the history of the "Galacticos"
Florentino Pérez represents a historic era at Real Madrid, having served as president in two terms: the first from 2000 to 2006, and the second beginning in 2009 and continuing to the present. Pérez is renowned for his "Galácticos" policy, which focuses on signing the world's biggest football stars. In his first term, he brought in players such as Zinedine Zidane, Luís Figo, Ronaldo Nazário, and David Beckham. In his second term, he continued this approach by signing Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaká, Karim Benzema, and Gareth Bale, leading the club to unprecedented European dominance, most notably winning the Champions League four times in five years.
Challenging critics and defending achievements
During the press conference, Perez delivered a strong message to his critics, saying: “I share your frustration that we have not been able to achieve any victories this year, but I must assure you and show you that, under my leadership, we have won 66 titles in football and basketball, including seven UEFA Champions League titles.”.
He added, challenging the voices working behind the scenes: “Let them run for election, they have the opportunity now. I will run to defend the interests of Real Madrid. Whoever wants to run, let them run, but don’t talk behind my back about me looking tired. Just two years ago I won the league title and the Champions League, and now it is said that Madrid is in ruins and chaos!”.
Denying rumors of illness and confirming his good health
Pérez also addressed the recent personal rumors surrounding him, categorically denying reports that he had cancer. He stated clearly: “I want to take this opportunity to reassure everyone who has been worried about me that I am still the president of Real Madrid and my company, and that my health is excellent. I wouldn't be able to hold both positions if I weren't in excellent health.” He explained: “If I had cancer, as has been said, I would have to go to a specialized oncology center. And if I did, wouldn't it have spread everywhere in the world?”.
The “Negrera” affair and its impact on Spanish football
Perez didn't miss the opportunity to comment on the "Negrera affair," in which Barcelona is accused of making payments to a company owned by the former vice-president of the referees' committee. Perez described the affair as "the biggest scandal in history," expressing his astonishment that referees from that era continue to officiate La Liga matches. He confirmed that Real Madrid is "preparing a significant file that we will submit to UEFA," a move that could have major repercussions in European football.
