November 24, (THEWILL) — Real Madrid is preparing to accept external investment for the first time in its 123-year history, with president Florentino Pérez confirming plans for a minority stakeholder to join the club’s ownership structure. The proposal would see an outside party acquire approximately 5% of a newly created subsidiary company, whilst the club’s 98,272 socios retain controlling power.
The 72-year-old president outlined the plans at Sunday’s General Assembly of Delegate Members, explaining that the move aims to establish the club’s market value and strengthen financial competitiveness against Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester City. Pérez confirmed that an extraordinary assembly would be convened, allowing 2,000 representative socios to vote before a full referendum grants all members their say on the matter.
Pérez told attendees that Real Madrid would continue operating under member ownership, with each socio holding one share transferable only to children or grandchildren. He stated: “We will continue to be a members’ club, but we will make a subsidiary company in which the socios maintain control but with a minority shareholder with a five per cent or so [stake].” He added that the club would not pursue a stock exchange flotation and would limit investment to preserve member control.
The incoming investors would reportedly receive a share of club income but would hold no voting rights in decisions. Pérez emphasised that Real Madrid would retain permanent rights to reclaim the investment, stating that the club “must not depend on just some directors or one president” and should not “fall into the hands of anyone.” He indicated that potential investors must share the club’s values and help defend its assets.
The structural change would also prevent Real Madrid from converting into a sports limited company, the model used by most Spanish clubs. Pérez referenced what he termed external threats, including efforts by La Liga president Javier Tebas to secure legislation that would grant the league a larger portion of Madrid’s annual revenues.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
