The Catalan club announced in a formal statement on its website that President Joan Laporta resigned in accordance with Article 42 of the club’s statutes to run for the board elections scheduled for March 15. The statement noted that the resignation was formalized during the ordinary board meeting held on Monday, which also witnessed the official call for elections. Additionally, nine current board members submitted their resignations in preparation for the upcoming elections.
According to the statement, First Vice President Rafa Yuste will oversee the transitional period until the new board assumes full duties after June 30. Spanish media reports indicate that the electoral campaign will run from March 6 to 13, with voting scheduled for March 15, followed by the official announcement of the new president.
Laporta remains the frontrunner to retain his position, particularly following the team’s success in winning the Spanish league, the King’s Cup, and the Super Cup last season, despite the financial challenges facing the club.
Following the meeting, Laporta stated, “I am leaving excited to see you again.” He added, “Barcelona fans are happy; we have recovered joy. I am leaving the club better than it was five years ago. We had to make difficult decisions, and looking at what has been achieved, we feel proud.” It is expected that Laporta will face strong competition from Victor Font, as well as Xavi Villalonga and Marc Cercle.
