Real Madrid President Pérez Attacks Spanish Press, Announces Re-election Bid
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez attacked the Spanish press during a press conference, accusing them of spreading lies and launching a campaign against him and the club.
- Pérez denied allegations about his health and refuted claims of being tired of his position, highlighting Real Madrid's 66 titles under his leadership.
- He announced new elections but confirmed he and his entire board intend to run again, stating he has no intention of stepping down.
Florentino Pérez, the formidable president of Real Madrid, has unleashed a blistering tirade against the Spanish press, accusing them of fabricating falsehoods and orchestrating a malicious campaign to undermine him and the club. In a fiery press conference, Pérez, known for his iron grip on the club, dismissed the media's influence, stating they "think they are important" but "that is not the case." He even pointed to specific digital outlets, like "Revelo," which he claimed was created solely to damage Real Madrid, and which has since ceased to exist.
They think they can intimidate me, but they give me much more energy than I have anyway.
Pérez vehemently denied accusations about his health, asserting, "My health is perfect," and dismissed reports of him being weary of his presidential duties. He painted a picture of relentless dedication, stating, "I get up early and go to bed last. I work like a dog." He also highlighted the club's immense success under his tenure, boasting 66 titles in football and basketball, including seven Champions League trophies, a testament to his vision and leadership.
Journalists think they influence the decisions at this club because they think they are important. But that is not the case.
While announcing new elections, Pérez made it clear that he and his entire board intend to seek re-election, signaling his unwavering commitment to Real Madrid. "I regret to say that I am not leaving," he declared, underscoring his determination to continue steering the club. This move comes amidst a challenging period for Real Madrid on the field, with the team on the brink of another season without a major title and reports of internal strife among players. Pérez's aggressive stance against the press, however, shifts the narrative, framing the club's struggles as a consequence of external media pressure rather than internal issues.
I share the disappointment.
Originally published by Der Spiegel in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.