In an explosive and deeply personal press conference at Valdebebas on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez confronted a wave of speculation regarding his health and his future at the club.
Defying reports of a “terminal illness,” the 79-year-old president launched a counter-offensive against what he described as an “absurd and undignified campaign” to unseat him.
The Health Denial: “My Health is Perfect”
Addressing rumors that have circulated on social media and in segments of the Spanish press, Pérez was blunt in his dismissal of reports concerning his well-being.
- The Cancer Rumors: “They say I have cancer, that I am sick… it is the most undignified thing that has ever happened to me,” Pérez stated. “I would like to reassure everyone: my health is perfect. I manage a global company with 170,000 employees and this club. I couldn’t do that if I were lying in a hospital bed.”
- The “Tiredness” Narrative: Pérez rejected claims that he is “tired” of the presidency, insisting he remains the first to arrive and the last to leave his office every day.
The Snap Election: “Let’s See Who Wins”
Rather than stepping down, Pérez took the aggressive step of calling for immediate presidential elections, challenging his detractors to face him at the ballot box.
- The Ultimatum: “People want me to go? Fine. I call elections. I will run with this Board of Directors to defend the interests of the members. Let those who operate in the shadows come forward now. This is their opportunity to debate with me.”
- Defending the Legacy: Pérez reminded the room of the 66 titles won under his leadership across football and basketball, arguing that a single trophyless season should not be used by “certain journalists” to destabilize the institution.
Context: A Club in Turmoil
The timing of this “bizarre and edgy” press conference follows one of the most difficult weeks in Real Madrid’s recent history:
- On-Pitch Failure: The announcement comes just 48 hours after a 2-0 El Clásico defeat handed Barcelona the La Liga title.
- Locker Room Chaos: The club is still reeling from the violent physical altercation between Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni that left Valverde hospitalized.
- Managerial Uncertainty: Current coach Álvaro Arbeloa is widely expected to leave this summer, with rumors of a José Mourinho return or a move for Xabi Alonso dominating the headlines.
What Happens Next?
While Pérez has called for elections, he did not specify an exact date or the formal initiation of the electoral commission. By calling the bluff of potential rivals, Pérez aims to consolidate his power and silence the “anti-Madridista” sentiment he claims is fueling the current crisis.
By calling for elections right after a painful El Clásico loss and amidst locker room violence, is Florentino Pérez making a masterstroke of “pure Madridismo” to reclaim control, or is this the first sign of a cracks in the armor of a president who has ruled unopposed for nearly two decades?
