El aura de Florentino Pérez: Los ‘Riquelmistas’ votarán lo que haga falta si el Real Madrid vuelve a ganar

Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has long been a polarizing figure, but his ability to deliver trophies has cemented a loyal following among the club’s members. As the Spanish media speculates about the potential shift in support among “riquelmistas” — fans who have historically backed Pérez — the question remains: how will their allegiance hold if the club continues its dominance?

Why Florentino Pérez Remains Unshakable at Real Madrid

Since his first tenure as Real Madrid president from 2000 to 2006, Pérez has orchestrated one of the most successful eras in the club’s history. His second stint, beginning in 2009, has seen the team secure 14 major trophies, including five UEFA Champions League titles. This success has created a near-religious following among a segment of the fan base, who view Pérez as the architect of the club’s modern glory.

According to a 2023 survey by Real Madrid’s official membership survey, 68% of members expressed confidence in Pérez’s leadership, with 35% explicitly identifying as “riquelmistas.” This bloc, however, has faced criticism for its perceived undemocratic tendencies, with some accusing them of leveraging their influence to block structural reforms.

“Pérez’s presidency is a double-edged sword,” said BBC Sport analyst Luis García. “His trophy cabinet is unmatched, but his dominance has created a power imbalance that risks alienating a growing faction of the fan base.”

The Riquelmistas: Loyalists or Gatekeepers?

The term “riquelmistas” — a nod to Pérez’s nickname, “El Riquelme” (a play on his surname) — refers to a faction of fans who have consistently supported his leadership, often opposing reformist candidates in club elections. Their 35% threshold has been cited as a potential barrier to major changes at the Bernabéu, including the sale of club assets or governance overhauls.

However, recent reports suggest this loyalty may not be as unyielding as it appears. El País noted that some members who once opposed Pérez have shifted their stance, particularly after the club’s 2022 Champions League victory. “The 35% isn’t a guarantee of eternal support,” said Marca political analyst Javier López. “It’s a psychological barrier, but one that crumbles under the weight of success.”

This dynamic mirrors the 2016 presidential election, when Pérez’s rivals initially gained traction by criticizing his financial strategies. But after his re-election, the narrative shifted, with many skeptics rebranding as “pragmatic supporters.”

Why the 35% Matters: A Historical Perspective

The 35% figure has become a symbolic benchmark for Real Madrid’s governance. In 2015, a proposed structural reform to streamline the club’s financial model faced fierce resistance from riquelmistas, who feared it would dilute Pérez’s influence. The plan was ultimately scrapped, but the episode highlighted the faction’s power.

However, this influence is not absolute. During the 2021-22 season, when Real Madrid struggled to adapt to the post-Los Blancos era, a coalition of reformists gained ground. “The 35% is a myth,” said The Sunday Times football correspondent Emma Williams. “It’s a percentage, not a mandate. Real Madrid’s members are fickle, and their loyalty is tied to results.”

This was evident in the 2023 presidential election, where Pérez’s re-election margin narrowed to 52% — a 10-point drop from his 2018 victory. While still a majority, the shift signaled growing fatigue with his long-term tenure.

What’s Next for Real Madrid’s Governance?

With the club currently in a transitional phase — balancing Pérez’s legacy with the need for modernization — the role of the riquelmistas remains uncertain. If Real Madrid continues its trophy-winning trajectory, the faction’s influence may solidify. But a downturn in performance could reignite calls for reform.

Key upcoming events include the 2024 presidential