Retaliating against Laporta, Messi makes a surprising decision at Barca

Lionel Messi is believed to want to intervene in the 2026 Barcelona presidential election, with the goal of discreetly supporting a candidate to oppose the incumbent president Joan Laporta’s power.

According to multiple sources in Spain such as SER CatalunyaandABC, Lionel Messi is said to be planning to influence the Catalan club’s presidential election scheduled for next year.

Although he has no intention to run directly, the Argentine superstar is expected to side with a particular candidate, primarily aiming to overthrow the current president Joan Laporta.

The relationship between Messi and Laporta is believed to have fractured since the shocking departure in 2021. At that time, despite being almost certain to sign a new contract with Barcelona, Messi unexpectedly had to leave after Laporta withdrew the deal at the last minute, citing financial crisis reasons despite previously repeatedly assuring he would renew El Pulga’s contract.

Currently, Laporta is still seen as the frontrunner in next year’s election, but it remains to be seen if any surprises will occur.

According to Spanish media, the Barcelona presidential election is expected to take place next spring, but all candidates (including Laporta) are quietly seeking the most valuable support: Lionel Messi.

The Argentine icon, voted by fans as the greatest player in Barca’s history, symbolizes the club’s golden era: filled with trophies, global fame, and record revenues from image rights, tours, and numerous major titles.

From Víctor Font, Benedito Vilajoana, Xavi Ciria, Joan Camprubí to Laporta, all consider Messi’s endorsement as the “golden ticket” that could determine the election outcome.

Messi personally voted for Laporta in the 2021 election, but now he believes that was a mistake. The new Barcelona presidential election is scheduled between March 15 and June 15, 2026.

Earlier this week, Laporta officially announced his re-election bid, expressing confidence in the achievements during his term, including two La Liga titles, two Copa del Rey trophies, two Spanish Super Cups, and progress on renovating Camp Nou.

However, Messi’s potential public support for an opposing candidate is seen as a factor that could change the election dynamics. Many figures within the Blaugrana are trying to secure backing from the club’s greatest legend.

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