Barcelona, Spain – As Barcelona prepares to elect its next president this Sunday, the legacy of Lionel Messi continues to dominate the conversation. Challenger Victor Font has directly accused incumbent Joan Laporta of exploiting Messi’s name during the campaign, a charge Laporta vehemently denies. The contentious exchange underscores the deep divisions within the club regarding the Argentine superstar’s departure in 2021 and the path forward for the Catalan giants.
The election pits Laporta, who previously served as president from 2003 to 2011 and again from 2021 to the present, against Font, who finished as the runner-up in the 2021 election. Both candidates secured the necessary signatures to compete – Laporta with 7,226 and Font with 4,440 – setting the stage for a fiercely contested final stretch.
Messi at the Center of the Debate
The renewed focus on Messi stems from recent claims made by former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez. Xavi alleged that a deal to bring Messi back to the Camp Nou in 2023 was nearly finalized after the 2022 World Cup, but was personally vetoed by Laporta. This revelation has ignited a firestorm of controversy, with Font seizing on the opportunity to portray Laporta as obstructionist and out of touch.
Font argues that a reconciliation with Messi is crucial for the club’s future, stating that Laporta “used” Messi during his previous campaign in 2021 and now refuses to acknowledge the potential benefits of his return. He believes that mending the relationship with the club’s all-time leading scorer is essential for restoring institutional harmony and regaining Barcelona’s position as a global football powerhouse.
Laporta Defends His Record, Focuses on the Present
Laporta has responded forcefully to Font’s accusations, dismissing them as a desperate attempt to distract from the club’s current progress. He insists that his priority is building a successful future with the current squad, led by manager Hansi Flick and emerging talents like Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsi.
“Barcelona fans want to talk about the present, with Lamine Yamal, [Pau] Cubarsi and Flick… not Messi,” Laporta declared, emphasizing his commitment to the team’s current trajectory. He acknowledged Messi’s immense contribution to the club, stating that the Argentine deserves a statue alongside Johan Cruyff when the Camp Nou’s renovation is complete, but firmly rejected the notion that his name should be used for political gain.
Laporta also criticized Font, labeling him as “chapucero y trilero” – roughly translated as “sloppy and a trickster” – in a heated exchange, highlighting the personal animosity that has characterized the campaign. This back-and-forth underscores the deep-seated rivalry between the two candidates and their contrasting visions for the club.
Xavi’s Bombshell and its Impact
Xavi’s claims regarding the blocked Messi transfer have undeniably shifted the narrative in the final days leading up to the election. The revelation has raised questions about Laporta’s motives and his willingness to prioritize the club’s long-term interests over personal considerations. It has also fueled speculation about potential power struggles within the Barcelona hierarchy.
The timing of Xavi’s interview is also noteworthy. Coming so close to the election, it’s impossible to ignore the potential for political maneuvering. Even as Xavi has not explicitly endorsed either candidate, his statements clearly cast a shadow over Laporta’s leadership.
Beyond Messi: Other Key Issues
While Messi’s legacy has dominated the headlines, the election is about more than just one player. Other key issues include the club’s financial situation, the ongoing renovation of the Camp Nou, and the development of La Masia, Barcelona’s famed youth academy.
Laporta has emphasized his experience in navigating the club’s financial challenges and his commitment to completing the Camp Nou renovation on time and within budget. Font, has presented a more ambitious vision for La Masia, promising to invest heavily in youth development and create a sustainable pipeline of talent.
What’s Next for Barcelona?
Barcelona club members will cast their votes this Sunday, March 15, 2026, to determine the club’s next president. The outcome of the election will have a profound impact on the future of Barcelona, shaping its sporting direction, financial strategy, and overall identity.
Regardless of who wins, the fresh president will face significant challenges. Rebuilding the team, restoring financial stability, and regaining Barcelona’s competitive edge in European football will require strong leadership, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of the club’s unique culture. The shadow of Lionel Messi, and the circumstances of his departure, will likely linger for years to arrive, serving as a constant reminder of both the club’s glorious past and the challenges that lie ahead.
The election results are expected to be announced late Sunday evening, local time (approximately 22:00 CET / 16:00 ET). Fans and observers around the world will be watching closely to see which candidate will lead Barcelona into its next chapter.
Worth a look
