Florentino Perez has won re-election as Real Madrid president. He defeated challenger Enrique Riquelme in Sunday's vote after a contest that stretched past midnight.
Riquelme conceded defeat and offered his congratulations to the incumbent. It was Perez's first contested presidential race since 2006.
Perez had called the snap election amid pressure over recent club performance. Real Madrid had gone two seasons without winning a major trophy.
Spanish national team selections raised additional concerns. The club's proposal to sell stakes to external investors also fueled the debate.
Perez ran an aggressive campaign despite the headwinds. He announced the signings of Denzel Dumfries and Ibrahima Konaté during the race.
José Mourinho's return as head coach was confirmed by the president. Perez also hinted at another major signing coming next week.
At his victory press conference, the 79-year-old outlined his vision. "I am still here, and I am here to defend Real Madrid," he told reporters.
According to Perez, the club would continue its pursuit of titles. He specifically named a 16th UEFA Champions League crown as his target.
"We will continue working so that Real Madrid keeps winning titles, and we will fight until the end to achieve the sixteenth European Cup," the president added.
Perez praised the Santiago Bernabéu as the world's finest stadium. He formally welcomed Mourinho back to the club in his remarks.
Club membership concerns received his attention as well. "Rest assured, with me as president, Real Madrid has been, is, and will always remain owned by its members," Perez stated.
He called for unity among supporters moving forward. Those who'd opposed him would see their concerns addressed, he promised.
This marks Perez's eighth term at the helm. During his presidency, the club has captured 76 trophies across football and basketball.
Football titles account for 37 of those honours. Basketball championships make up the remaining 39.
His seven UEFA Champions League wins rank among his greatest achievements. European football historians widely regard him as the continent's most successful club president.
