AfriPulse
Joan Laporta has been re-elected as president of Barcelona after winning the club’s latest presidential election, securing a fourth mandate that will run until 2031.
The Catalan club confirmed the result late Sunday night following a vote held alongside Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Sevilla at the Spotify Camp Nou.
With 75 percent of ballots counted, Laporta had already built an unassailable lead, claiming 68 percent of the votes.
His main challenger, Victor Font, conceded defeat shortly after the early results were announced.
Laporta re-elected as Barcelona president – Getty image
Font accepts defeat after decisive vote
Speaking to reporters after acknowledging the outcome, Font congratulated Laporta and his team while expressing disappointment over the result.
“We are sad. We had the illusion of transforming the club and bringing it closer to its people,” Font said.
“It’s a shame, but we accept the result as it cannot be otherwise. We congratulate the president-elect, Joan Laporta, and his entire board of directors. We have defended a different Barça.”
Font added that he would continue advocating for his vision of the club’s future.
“And we will continue to defend this cause because it is a noble cause and of the country. I will continue to work, fight and strive so that Barça, the club of my life, is just as I dream of it.”
Flick’s future appears secure
Laporta’s re-election is also likely to bring stability to the club’s sporting project. Reports had suggested that head coach Hansi Flick could consider leaving if Font had won the presidency.
With Laporta remaining in charge, that uncertainty appears to have eased, increasing the likelihood that Flick will continue in his role and see out his contract.
The German manager was present earlier in the day when Barcelona players cast their votes following the convincing victory over Sevilla.
Laporta, who previously led Barcelona during successful periods earlier in his tenure, will now begin a fresh five-year term overseeing the club’s sporting and financial direction.
Source: Gistreel | Read the Full Story…
