Rafael Nadal In Race To Become Real Madrid President? Tennis Legend Reacts: 'Would Like To Clarify'

Last Updated:May 14, 2026, 10:36 IST

Rafael Nadal denies reports he will run for Real Madrid president, while Florentino Perez confirms he will not resign despite a trophyless season and fan frustration.

Tennis great Rafael Nadal has firmly denied speculation linking him to the upcoming presidential elections at Real Madrid, dismissing reports suggesting he could run to replace long-serving president Florentino Perez.

Rumours intensified after Perez officially announced fresh club elections following a disappointing campaign in which Real Madrid failed to win a major trophy. However, Nadal quickly shut down the growing speculation with a statement on social media.

“I have read reports that link me to possible candidacies for the presidency of Real Madrid. I would like to clarify that these reports are not true," the former World No. 1 and 14-time French Open champion, Rafael Nadal, posted on X.

Florentino Perez’s Explosive Press Conference

Perez, meanwhile, confirmed that he intends to remain in charge despite mounting criticism after a frustrating season for the Spanish giants. “I am not going to resign," the 79-year-old Perez told a press conference towards the end of a season in which Real Madrid will finish trophyless.

Madrid’s campaign unravelled in the closing weeks of the season. Arch-rivals Barcelona secured back-to-back La Liga titles after defeating Real Madrid 2-0 in the Clasico at Camp Nou. The club also suffered an early exit from the UEFA Champions League, losing to Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.

Perez’s emotional press conference reportedly included criticism of referees, league officials and media narratives surrounding the club’s struggles. He also refused to address questions regarding possible managerial changes or transfer plans.

“We are not at that stage of the proceedings. We are at the stage of ensuring that Real Madrid belongs to its members," Perez said. “I’m not going to talk about coaches or players and I won’t talk about sporting matters."

Despite frustration among supporters, Perez defended his record at the club. “I sometimes share the frustration that this year we haven’t managed to win anything and we’re not doing well at all, and I’m the first to admit I’d rather win everything. However, I must remind you that, with me as president, we’ve won 66 titles in football and basketball – 37 in football and 29 in basketball – including seven European Cups in football and three in basketball," he added.

“Why do they want to get rid of me? Just because a few people are saying they want to stand for election? Let them stand."

(With inputs from Agencies)

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