With just ten days remaining until the Real Madrid presidential elections, candidate Enrique Riquelme has leveled accusations of defamation against the incumbent, Florentino Perez. Both candidates presented their visions for the club’s future on Wednesday evening.
During his presentation, Florentino Perez linked Riquelme’s campaign to the controversial tenure of Ramon Calderon (2006-2009) and suggested Riquelme’s camp seeks to exploit the club for personal gain. Perez stated, “They were at the center of a dark period in Real Madrid’s history. Now we know that this campaign is orchestrated by the same people who, in an assembly we’d all like to forget, stole the members’ sovereignty.”
Enrique Riquelme Responds to Accusations
Following his own presentation of proposals, Riquelme issued a statement on Thursday refuting Perez’s claims. He pointed out his young age, stating he was only 15 when Calderon was in power. Riquelme’s statement, as reported by Marca, read:
“Real Madrid deserves much more than noise, lies, self-serving rumors, and smear campaigns among Madridistas who share the same love for the club and who should never be used to limit democracy at Real Madrid. In recent hours, we have sadly witnessed how Mr. Florentino Perez and those closest to him have opted for personal attacks and tension instead of fostering a calm, elegant debate befitting the greatest sporting institution in the world.
Riquelme’s statement also questioned the role of Anas Laghrari as an unofficial advisor to Perez, deeming it “unacceptable” that member concerns about his involvement are dismissed. He concluded by formally inviting Perez to a public debate.
Riquelme’s Proposals for Real Madrid
Riquelme, who has already indicated he has a preferred manager and two key signings ready, has focused on appealing to club members in recent days. One of his proposed initiatives, shared on Cadena Cope, involves reducing the membership fee by 50% until Real Madrid wins the Champions League again.
Further proposals include increasing ticket availability and providing priority access to spare tickets for members. He also suggested that season ticket holders unable to attend games could recoup 70% of their seat’s price. Riquelme pledged to ensure Real Madrid would not be sold to investors. Additionally, he proposed greater transparency regarding the management of VIP boxes and the season ticket waiting list.
Florentino Perez’s Re-election Promises
During his presentation, attended by former players like Roberto Carlos, Ronaldo Nazario, and Guti Hernandez, who all endorsed his re-election, Perez assured that “signings will come, as they always have.” He also committed to pursuing justice in the Negreira case and empowering members as true owners, referencing an earlier concept of converting members into shareholders. Perez also reiterated his plan for the “Infinite Bernabeu” project, including a collaboration with Apple to create virtual reality game experiences from the stadium.
