Veteran tennis star Rafael Nadal has formally denied reports that he intends to run for the presidency of Real Madrid.
Amid intense speculation following Florentino Pérez’s announcement of early elections after a trophy-less season, Nadal addressed the rumours directly, stating they were not true.
The 22-time Grand Slam champion remains focused on his academy, family, and personal projects, putting an end to the speculation surrounding his involvement in the 2026 elections.
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“Yesterday I wanted to nip any speculation in the bud. I saw that I was being linked with [possible candidate] Enrique Riquelme’s candidacy. I understand that it made sense and people can speculate but, although I have a good relationship with him [Riquelme], I have enormous respect for Florentino and everything that he is,” Nadal wrote on his X handle.
“I didn’t want to fuel speculation about something I’m not involved in. To prevent that — I’m not one to deny things — but football is a world apart and I just wanted to make it clear that I’m not focussed on that at the moment.
“I like football, I’m passionate about it, I’m a Madrid fan and a Mallorca fan. Yesterday was a difficult day. We have to recognise that things at Madrid have not gone well. This is sport — there have been mistakes and there is nothing wrong with recognising that after so many years of making the right decisions.
“I understand that elections are being called. The members will decide whether to keep their trust or if there is a possible alternative, and the owners will decide who they want to be their leader.”
