Real Madrid Legend Perez Steps Down in 2026 After Transformative Tenure

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez plans to step down next year, four years before his current term ends in 2028. Spanish journalist Pepe Álvarez broke the news on X, saying Pérez wants to ensure an "organized and orderly" succession process at one of football's most powerful clubs.

This move comes as a surprise since Pérez still has plenty of time left in his presidency. But the 77-year-old construction magnate appears focused on creating a smooth transition of power at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Pérez has been Real Madrid's president for most of the past two decades, with only a brief break from 2006 to 2009. During his tenure, he's overseen the signing of galácticos like Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, and Kaká, while the club won five Champions League titles between 2014 and 2022.

The timing suggests Pérez wants to leave while the club sits at the top. Real Madrid just won their 15th European Cup last season and recently signed French superstar Kylian Mbappé on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.

According to Álvarez, Pérez is committed to this transition plan regardless of whether club members support or oppose any potential referendum on presidential candidacy requirements. This indicates he's serious about stepping aside and not looking to extend his influence behind the scenes.

For Real Madrid, this means the end of an era. Pérez transformed the club into a global brand worth billions, but his departure will create uncertainty about the club's future direction. Potential successors will need to maintain the club's winning culture while managing massive financial expectations and player egos.

The announcement also raises questions about ongoing projects like the renovated Bernabéu stadium and the club's stance on UEFA's Financial Fair Play regulations. Pérez has been a vocal critic of these rules and a driving force behind the failed Super League project in 2021.