Real Madrid began its presidential election process on Thursday after Florentino Perez officially called for new elections and confirmed he will run again.
The club said candidates have until May 23 to submit their names.
Anyone hoping to challenge Perez must meet strict conditions. Candidates must have been a Real Madrid member for at least 20 years. They must also provide a financial guarantee of 187 million euros, backed by personal assets.
Perez, 79, was last re-elected without opposition in January 2025 for another four year term.
He confirmed on Tuesday that he wants to continue as president.
Spanish reports say Enrique Riquelme, president of energy and water company Cox, may consider joining the race.
Riquelme reportedly asked for more time to prepare a possible campaign.
Perez dismissed that idea, saying he did not ask for extra time when he first ran in 2000 and still won.
If more than one candidate enters, Real Madrid’s electoral board will later confirm the date and location of the vote.
If no rival appears, Perez will stay in charge automatically once again.
That happened in 2013, 2017, 2021 and 2025.
Perez first became Real Madrid president in 2000 and led the famous Galactico era before stepping down in 2006.
After returning in 2009, he guided the club to major success.
Under his leadership, Real Madrid have won five La Liga titles and six Champions League trophies, along with many other honours.
