Things are starting to move around Real Madrid

The announcement of early elections made by Florentino Pérez has already started generating movement around Real Madrid, and one of the first important names to emerge is Spanish businessman Enrique Riquelme Vives.

The executive president of the COX Group publicly admitted that he is seriously considering the possibility of running for the presidency of the Spanish giants, opening the door to what could become a far more dramatic election process than many initially expected.

“We’ll see if we pick up the glove”

During a forum held in Mexico City, Riquelme spoke publicly for the first time about the possibility of officially becoming a candidate to lead the biggest club in world football.

“I will decide in the coming days whether we pick up the glove,” the Spanish businessman said when asked about the upcoming Real Madrid presidential elections.

The executive also made clear the strong emotional connection he has with the club and insisted he will always be available to help Real Madrid. “As a Madridista, I will always be available. And I will always think about what’s best for Real Madrid,” he explained.

Riquelme highlights his financial strength and experience

Hours after his comments, the businessman also published an open letter signed as Real Madrid member number 43,858, where he stated that he possesses the financial capacity necessary to lead an institution of such magnitude.

Riquelme particularly emphasized his business experience leading COX, a company specializing in the energy and solar sectors that currently operates in countries such as Mexico, Chile, Panama, Colombia, the United States, and several regions across the Middle East.

Recently, his company completed one of the largest business deals in the energy market after acquiring Iberdrola México for approximately $4 billion dollars.

Florentino Pérez remains the overwhelming favorite

Despite the emergence of possible challengers, the reality is that Florentino Pérez continues to be the most powerful figure within Real Madrid.

Under his leadership, the club won multiple Champions League titles, completely transformed the Santiago Bernabéu, and solidified Real Madrid as one of the most influential sports institutions in the world. Because of that, any potential rival will need much more than financial backing to truly convince the club’s members.

Real Madrid’s political future is beginning to heat up

For now, Enrique Riquelme has not officially confirmed his candidacy, but his comments have already generated major discussion throughout the Real Madrid environment.

And while the club prepares to define its presidential future, it is becoming increasingly clear that the coming weeks could open one of the most fascinating and high-profile election processes the institution has seen in years.

Follow all the action from the 2026 FIFA World Cup on beIN SPORTS.

Watch beIN SPORTS Xtra live for free on YouTube