Barcelona’s most recent presidential election took place in March 2026, where Joan Laporta was re-elected for a second consecutive term with over 68 percent of the vote. His mandate runs until 2031, with his office term beginning in July 2026.
According to a report by SPORT, Catalan businessman Jose Elias, president of Audax Renovables and financial supporter of Laporta’s 2021 campaign, has left open the possibility of running in future Barça board elections once Laporta’s current term concludes.
When asked whether he saw himself running for public office, Elias redirected the question towards Barcelona, stating, "I would run for a Barca board before that." He emphasized the importance of having a strong team, citing Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique as examples: "You need good teammates. It is not about going just for the sake of going. You have to go with a project and with excitement."
Elias pointed out that now is "a good moment," as Laporta cannot run again, leaving the club somewhat "orphaned." He also mentioned familiar figures who had previously sought presidency, including Victor Font and Marc Ciria — the latter failing to gather enough signatures this time.
These comments indicate that the post-Laporta conversation has quietly begun, which is natural given Barcelona’s member-owned structure and the importance of planning future leadership.
Adding an interesting detail, Elias noted his personal friendship with Enrique Riquelme, connected to Real Madrid’s electoral scene, and recounted how they imagined a future rivalry where one leads Barcelona and the other Madrid.
The next president after Laporta will inherit a club that must remain competitive, financially disciplined, and loyal to its identity. Whether Elias will ultimately run remains to be seen as the 2031 elections approach.
