JOAN LAPORTA has won re-election as president of FC Barcelona and will lead the club for another five years.
The 63-year-old received more than 68% of the votes from club members. His new term officially begins on 1 July. The victory marks Laporta’s fourth period in charge of the Spanish giants.
His closest challenger, Victor Font, secured nearly 30% of the vote, while a small number of ballots were declared invalid.
Laporta temporarily stepped down last month to comply with club regulations before contesting the election again.
After the result, he described the victory as a powerful endorsement from members and promised an exciting future for the club.
Laporta Promises Strong Future for Barcelona
During his speech, Laporta thanked club members for their support and emphasised the unique structure of Barcelona, where fans directly elect the president.
He promised that the club will continue to grow stronger in the coming years.
Laporta also pledged to reinforce the first team and complete the redevelopment of the club’s historic stadium, Camp Nou.
Nearly 48,500 members voted in the election, representing a turnout of about 42%. Laporta collected more than 32,000 votes, while Font received just over 14,000.
Laporta’s Previous Success at Barcelona
Laporta previously served as Barcelona president from 2003 to 2010. During that era, he appointed Pep Guardiola as head coach, a decision that led to one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.
He returned to power again in 2021 during a difficult financial period for the club.
Barcelona had accumulated major debt after the leadership of former president Josep Maria Bartomeu. The economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic worsened the club’s financial crisis.
Many supporters believe Laporta has gradually stabilised the club’s situation while rebuilding its competitive strength.
Sporting Success Strengthened Laporta’s Campaign
Barcelona’s recent progress on the pitch played a major role in Laporta’s re-election.
Under coach Hansi Flick, the club won a domestic treble last season and returned to strong form in Spanish football.
The team currently leads Real Madrid by four points at the top of La Liga.
Brazilian winger Raphinha recently scored a hat-trick in a 5-2 victory against Sevilla FC, highlighting the team’s attacking strength.
Barcelona will also face Newcastle United FC in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League round-of-16 tie.
Young star Lamine Yamal rescued a 1-1 draw in the first leg with a dramatic stoppage-time penalty at St James’ Park.
Young Talent Boosts Confidence in the Project
The emergence of several young players also strengthened confidence in Laporta’s long-term vision.
Talents such as Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Marc Bernal and Fermin Lopez have become important members of the first team.
Their development suggests the club has built a strong foundation for the future.
Many members ultimately chose stability instead of a leadership change, believing the current project continues to move in the right direction.
Laporta’s victory therefore reflects strong support for the direction Barcelona has taken in recent years.
