Joan Laporta steps down as president of Barcelona, plans to run again in upcoming election.
Joan Laporta has stepped down as president of Barcelona in preparation for his re-election campaign when club members cast their votes on March 15.
According to club rules, the current president must resign prior to elections, with a management commission taking charge of the club’s daily operations during this period.
This commission will be led by Rafa Yuste, who has served as one of Laporta’s vice presidents since his election in 2021.
Laporta will encounter competition for the presidency from Víctor Font, Marc Ciria, Xavier Vilajoana, and Joan Camprubí, all of whom have declared their intention to run.
However, to have their names included on the ballot for March 15, they must first secure 2,321 signatures from club members in support of their candidacy.
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Laporta was re-elected in 2021 for a second term as Barça president, having previously held the position from 2003 to 2010, following victories in the elections of 2003 and 2006.
He won against Font five years ago, receiving 30,184 votes compared to Font’s 16,679, while Toni Freixa, who is not a candidate this time, placed third with 4,769 votes.
The campaign is set to intensify, with key issues that may influence voter decisions likely to include prospective summer signings, the club’s financial situation, the ongoing redevelopment of Spotify Camp Nou, which is nearing completion, and any future involvement of Lionel Messi with the club.
