Joan Laporta, the incumbent president of Barca, resigned on 9/2, paving the way for the 15/3 election. Club regulations mandate that the sitting president steps down before an election. An interim committee, led by Rafa Yuste, one of Laporta's vice presidents from the 2021-2026 term, will manage the club's daily operations until a new leader is elected.

Laporta (center) watched Barca's 3-0 victory over Mallorca in La Liga's 23rd round at Camp Nou on 7/2. Photo: NP

Laporta (center) watched Barca's 3-0 victory over Mallorca in La Liga's 23rd round at Camp Nou on 7/2. Photo: NP

"I am leaving with the hope of seeing all of you again", Laporta stated after his resignation. "I am leaving the club in a better condition than five years ago. We had to make some difficult decisions, and we are proud of what has been achieved. Barca fans are very happy." He also hinted at helping Barca win the Champions League again if re-elected, a title the Camp Nou club last claimed in 2015.

For the next five-year term election, Laporta faces competition from Victor Font, Marc Ciria, Xavier Vilajoana, and Joan Camprubi. To appear on the 15/3 ballot, candidates must first gather a minimum of 2,321 supporting signatures from club members.

Laporta has a history of election victories, having won three times in 2003, 2006, and 2021. In the 2021 election, he secured 30,184 votes, significantly outperforming Font, who received 16,679 votes. Toni Freixa, who is not running this time, placed third with 4,769 votes.

Several issues could impact this year's election outcome, including potential summer transfer signings, the club's financial situation, the final stages of the Camp Nou stadium renovation, and Lionel Messi's future role at the club. In 2021, Laporta promised to extend Messi's contract during his campaign but later did the opposite, causing dissatisfaction among some members. However, the club's success over the past two years, including three domestic titles and numerous victories against Real, has helped him regain credibility.

Unlike many other clubs owned by individuals, Barca and Real are owned by their members. Barca currently has approximately 140,000 members, though only senior members are eligible to vote for the president and decide on important club matters.

By Thanh Quy (Source: Marca, ESPN)