Real Madrid Considers Historic Overhaul of 123-Year-Old Ownership

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President Florentino Perez is exploring ways to attract modern investment while aiming to protect the club’s cherished member-run soul.

In a move that could redefine one of football’s most iconic institutions, Real Madrid is actively exploring a fundamental change to its 123-year-old, member-owned structure. Under the direction of veteran President Florentino Perez, the club is studying potential new models to attract external investment without fully surrendering the control that has defined its history.

The driving force behind this potential revolution is the 78-year-old Perez himself, who is reportedly keen to modernize the club’s financial foundations before his tenure ends. The current model, where the club is fully owned by its members who elect the president, has been a sacred pillar of the Madrid identity. However, Perez has signaled a need for evolution, telling last year’s General Assembly that the club was looking into changes that could involve foreign capital.

The path forward is complex. One leading idea, according to reports, involves splitting the club into two separate entities: one for the footballing side and one for the business operations. This could allow fans to retain control over sporting decisions while letting investors buy shares in the commercial arm. Another model under consideration is Germany’s ‘50+1’ rule, which ensures fans remain the majority shareholders.

Yet, Perez faces a delicate balancing act. The core challenge is attracting the fresh finances needed to compete at the highest level without ceding the decision-making power and cultural soul that members hold dear. He has previously stated he does not want a foreign businessperson in charge of the club, and any final proposal will likely be put to a vote, requiring Perez to convince the membership that the benefits of new money are worth the historic sacrifice.

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