Jose Mourinho nears Real Madrid return as Florentino Perez wins presidential re-election

The 79-year-old secured 65 per cent of the vote, receiving 21,741 ballots, while rival candidate Enrique Riquelme earned 11,814 votes, accounting for 35 per cent.

Speaking after the result was confirmed, Perez hailed the outcome as a major victory for the club and thanked members for taking part in the election.

"We've obtained the second-best result in the history of Real Madrid elections," Perez said. "It's an extraordinary result. Today, Real Madrid won. We've shown an example of democracy to the world.

"We'll keep working for Real Madrid to keep winning trophies. I want to thank everyone who participated. Together, we have a lot of history left to make."

The vote followed a two-week campaign after Perez unexpectedly called elections in a bid to gain support from members following two seasons without a major trophy.

Perez has been in charge of the Spanish giants since 2009, having previously served as president between 2000 and 2006. During his leadership, Real Madrid have enjoyed one of the most successful periods in the club's history, winning seven UEFA Champions League titles and seven La Liga crowns.

This was the first time since 2006 that Madrid members had a choice between candidates. Perez had previously been elected unopposed in 2009, 2013, 2017, 2021 and 2025.

During the campaign, Perez outlined ambitious plans for the club. He confirmed that Jose Mourinho would return as head coach if he won the election and announced the arrivals of defenders Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries. He also revealed plans to make a bid worth more than 150 million euros for a new attacking star.

Riquelme, a 37-year-old businessman, congratulated Perez after conceding defeat.

"I want to congratulate Florentino Perez's candidacy for the victory," Riquelme said. "I also want to thank all the members who listened and understood the importance of voting after 20 years. We know that Real Madrid isn't for sale."

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