Joan Laporta has formally resigned as president of FC Barcelona in line with Article 42.f of the club’s statutes, a requirement that allows him to stand for reelection in the upcoming board elections scheduled for March 15.
The decision is not linked to any immediate sporting or financial emergency. Instead, it represents a calculated move that clears the path for Laporta to launch a fresh campaign for another term, just under three years after returning to office in March 2021.
Laporta is expected to face competition from several declared pre-candidates, including Víctor Font, Xavi Vilajoana, and Marc Ciria. His resignation effectively marks the beginning of a high-stakes electoral battle that will determine the club’s leadership direction.
The reshuffle extends beyond the presidency. Eight members of Laporta’s board have also stepped down to participate in the electoral process, including senior figures responsible for institutional and social affairs. Their exit has prompted an immediate restructuring of the club’s executive framework.
Rafa Yuste, previously sporting vice president and a close ally of Laporta, has been appointed interim president and will oversee the club until the current mandate expires on June 30. He now heads a streamlined but fully functional board that meets the statutory minimum for governance.
Joining Yuste in the interim leadership are Josep Cubells as vice president and secretary, Alfons Castro as treasurer, and board members Josep Ignasi Macià, Àngel Riudalbas, Joan Solé i Sust, and Sisco Pujol. Together, they will manage Barcelona’s day-to-day operations as the election campaign unfolds.
Despite the political shake-up, the club has stressed continuity. The restructured board proceeded with its scheduled agenda after the resignations were confirmed, signalling an intention to maintain operational stability throughout the transition.
