Joan Laporta has resigned as Barcelona president. It’s a procedural step, required by club statutes, so he can stand in the upcoming election on March 15, 2026. He wants a third consecutive term leading the club, as Goal.com reported. This isn’t an unexpected move.
The Electoral Arena Opens
Laporta’s resignation became official on February 9, 2026. This was just ahead of the March 15 election. Barcelona’s Article 42.f mandates this for any sitting president seeking re-election. It ensures a fair playing field, stopping the incumbent from using club resources for campaigning. And that makes sense, doesn’t it?
Rafa Yuste, the current sporting vice-president, steps in as acting president. He’ll lead a management committee, keeping things stable until a new Board of Directors takes over. His tenure runs until June 30. Rafa’s been around since Laporta’s 2021 return, so he knows the ropes.
Laporta won’t have it all his own way, though. He faces Víctor Font and three other contenders for the presidency. It’s a crowded field for sure, and everyone wants a shot at the top job at Barça.
On the Pitch and Off
Barcelona sits at the top of La Liga right now, as of February 9, 2026. They’ve played 23 matches, with 19 wins, 1 draw, and 3 losses. That’s 58 points and a +40 goal differential. Real Madrid is second, just one point behind with 57 points from the same number of games. So the team’s doing well. ESPN Soccer confirms league standings.
The campaign is going to focus on a big project: the Camp Nou redevelopment. It’s almost done. Laporta pitches himself as the person who can finish the stadium by 2027 while keeping the team competitive. Opponents, they will challenge the delays and the money used for construction. That’s a huge talking point for members.
Laporta has a history here. He led Barcelona during a “golden age” from 2003 to 2010. Then he came back in 2021, when the club was in a bad financial spot. His 2021 election victory was decisive. People remembered the good times, and they wanted hope. You can’t forget that history, it’s a big part of his appeal.
What Happens Next
The election itself is set for March 15, 2026. Barcelona members will cast their votes to decide who leads the club for the next term. Whoever wins will take over from Rafa Yuste’s interim management. This period, with Laporta stepping aside, means everyone has to wait and see what the club’s future holds.
Laporta wants to continue his work. He thinks he’s the best man for the job. But he’s got to convince the voters again. And the club’s future, both on the field and with that new stadium, hangs in the balance. It’s a big few weeks coming up for Barcelona, according to OneFootball.
Baishali Karmakar 
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