Florentino Pérez has won the 2026 presidential election at Real Madrid, extending his leadership of the club until 2030 after defeating his first official challenger in two decades.
According to widely reported exit polls from Spanish media outlet MARCA, the 79-year-old incumbent secured about 65% of the vote.
The broadcaster COPE also released similar projections, placing Pérez at 64.19% compared to 35.81% for his opponent, 37-year-old renewable energy entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme.
The election marked a significant moment for the club’s supporters, as it was the first time since 2006 that Real Madrid members, known as socios, were presented with an alternative candidate after five consecutive uncontested elections.
Pérez had called for the early election in May following a second straight season without a major trophy, seeking a fresh mandate from the club’s membership.
The result confirms his continued dominance at the helm of Real Madrid as he prepares for another four-year term.
