Florentino Pérez Presidency Start

Lore & Background

Pérez began his professional career in 1971 and was a member of the Union of the Democratic Centre and secretary-general of the Democratic Reformist Party from 1979 to 1986. He implemented the Galácticos policy during his first term, buying Luís Figo, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and David Beckham. From 2003–04 to 2005–06, the club won no trophies, leading to his resignation in 2006. He returned in 2009, restarted the Galácticos policy, and brought Kaká, Xabi Alonso, Karim Benzema, Cristiano Ronaldo, and later Gareth Bale. From 2013 to 2024, the club won six Champions League titles. Real Madrid has won a record 8 Champions League titles during his presidency. Pérez is the most successful president in Real Madrid history, winning 38 titles.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the pitch at Santiago Bernabéu as the floodlights hummed against the night sky. Inside the presidential box, Florentino Pérez watched intently as Luís Figo cut inside, the roar of the crowd a mix of adulation and tension. It was more than just a match; it was the dawn of a new philosophy where the jersey carried the weight of history and the future simultaneously. With every pass from Zidane's boots, the club's identity shifted, becoming a beacon for the world's greatest talent.

Reader's Guide

Pérez's presidency is divided into two terms: first term (2000–2006) and second term (2009–present). The Galácticos policy began in 2000 with the signing of Luís Figo. Major Champions League victories under his second term include 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2022. The club also won La Liga titles in 2012, 2020, and 2022.

Did You Know?

• Pérez promised to bring Luís Figo from Barcelona during his 2000 presidential campaign, which helped him win the election.
• Zinedine Zidane was signed for a then-world record fee of €77.5 million in 2001.
• Cristiano Ronaldo was signed for a then-world record fee of £80 million in 2009.
• Real Madrid won three consecutive Champions League titles from 2016 to 2018 under coach Zinedine Zidane.