Joan Laporta Steps Down As FC Barcelona President
Joan Laporta Resigns as President of FC Barcelona Ahead of Board Elections
Barcelona, Spain — Joan Laporta has officially resigned as president of FC Barcelona, a move permitted under Article 42.f of the club’s statutes. This resignation is a strategic step to enable his candidacy in the upcoming board elections set for March 15.
The decision is not a reaction to any urgent sporting or financial crisis but rather a planned effort to allow Laporta to run for another term. He initially returned to the presidency in March 2021.
In the upcoming elections, Laporta is expected to contend with several declared opponents, including Víctor Font, Xavi Vilajoana, and Marc Ciria. His resignation signals the commencement of a critical electoral battle that will shape the future leadership of the club.
Additionally, eight members of Laporta’s board have resigned to focus on their electoral campaigns. This includes key figures overseeing institutional and social affairs, prompting an immediate restructuring of the club’s executive team.
Rafa Yuste, formerly the sporting vice president and a close associate of Laporta, has been named interim president. He will lead the club until the current mandate concludes on June 30. Yuste will work alongside a streamlined board that meets the necessary statutory governance requirements.
Joining Yuste in interim leadership roles are Josep Cubells as vice president and secretary, Alfons Castro as treasurer, and board members Josep Ignasi Macià, Àngel Riudalbas, Joan Solé i Sust, and Sisco Pujol. This team will manage the club’s day-to-day operations while the election campaign progresses.
Despite the shifts in leadership, the club has emphasized continuity. The restructured board is proceeding with its scheduled agenda, demonstrating an intention to maintain operational stability throughout the transition.
