Joan Laporta Resigns as FC Barcelona President to Trigger 2026 Elections
BARCELONA, 09 February 2026 – Joan Laporta has officially stepped down from his position as the president of FC Barcelona today, marking the beginning of a 35-day countdown to the club’s presidential elections. The move, which is a procedural requirement under Article 42.f of the club statutes, allows Laporta to seek a new mandate in the upcoming vote scheduled for 15 March.
The ‘Election Mode’ Transition
In a significant day at the club’s offices, Laporta and several members of the Board of Directors submitted their resignations during a routine meeting. This transition is a legal necessity for any sitting president wishing to stand for re-election. Following the resignation, Rafa Yuste has taken the chair on an interim basis to oversee the club’s daily operations until the new president is inaugurated.
During his farewell address, Laporta expressed immense pride in his second term, which began in 2021. He specifically highlighted the appointment of Hansi Flick as head coach and the continued integration of homegrown talent from La Masia as his most significant achievements. Despite the administrative exit, Laporta remains the frontrunner to win the March election, buoyed by recent successes on the pitch and the progress of the Spotify Camp Nou renovation.
Key Figures and Election Timeline
| Event / Entity | Details |
|---|---|
| Resignation Date | 09 February 2026 |
| Election Date | 15 March 2026 |
| Interim President | Rafa Yuste |
| Current Manager | Hansi Flick |
| Statutory Rule | Article 42.f (Mandatory resignation to run) |
Controversies and Challenges
While Laporta enters the campaign as the favourite, his tenure has not been without criticism. Rival candidate Marc Ciria has described the timing of the resignation as “opportunistic,” suggesting Laporta is looking to capitalise on the momentum of the recent Super Cup victory. Furthermore, Laporta has faced scrutiny over the club’s slow return to a fully operational Spotify Camp Nou, a project he recently described as the “most important” in the club’s history.
The outgoing president also made headlines recently for his candid remarks regarding rivals Real Madrid. Laporta publicly criticised a penalty awarded to Kylian Mbappé in a match against Rayo Vallecano, dismissively labelling the incident as “a dive.” Such comments underline the fierce competitive atmosphere as the club enters a period of political uncertainty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Joan Laporta resign today?
Under FC Barcelona’s statutes, a sitting president must resign their post if they intend to run for re-election. This ensures a neutral environment during the 35-day campaign period leading up to the vote.
Who is running the club in the meantime?
Rafa Yuste, previously the vice-president, has assumed the role of interim chair. He will manage the club’s administrative duties until the election results are finalised in March.
When will the new president be elected?
The presidential election is scheduled to take place on Sunday, 15 March 2026. Joan Laporta is expected to be the primary candidate against several challengers yet to be fully confirmed.
What is the status of the Spotify Camp Nou?
The stadium remains under renovation. While Laporta has expressed satisfaction with the general progress, he has also voiced frustration regarding bureaucratic hurdles that have delayed the club’s full return to their home ground.