Florentino Pérez Rodríguez

Florentino Pérez attended the Technical University of Madrid (Universidad Politécnica de Madrid), where he pursued a rigorous degree in civil engineering.

His background in engineering laid the critical foundation for his eventual dominance in the global infrastructure sector and his keen interest in monumental construction projects. This expertise later proved invaluable during his supervision of the ambitious redevelopment of the Santiago Bernabéu stadium.

Florentino Pérez began his professional journey in civil engineering and local politics before shifting his focus to the private sector in the 1980s. He became a central figure in Spain's construction industry, eventually becoming the CEO of Grupo ACS in 1997. Under his leadership, ACS grew into a colossal, publicly traded multinational corporation, securing infrastructure contracts worldwide and amassing immense revenue.

His global fame, however, stems from his presidency at Real Madrid. He first assumed the role in 2000, unseating Lorenzo Sanz by famously promising to sign Luis Figo from fierce rivals Barcelona. This audacious move launched the first Galácticos era, bringing in global icons like Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo Nazário, and David Beckham to the Spanish capital.

After resigning voluntarily in 2006, he returned unopposed in 2009, initiating a second Galácticos era defined by the blockbuster signings of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaká, and Karim Benzema. Over the next fifteen years, Pérez oversaw an era of staggering modern success, guiding the club to numerous UEFA Champions League titles and domestic championships. He also navigated high-profile controversies, including his role as a leading architect of the proposed European Super League.

The 2025-2026 season brought unexpected turbulence as Real Madrid finished the campaign without a major trophy. The team suffered a Champions League quarter-final exit against Bayern Munich and lost the La Liga title to Hansi Flick's Barcelona following a decisive defeat in El Clásico. The disappointing season fueled intense media criticism and rumors of internal instability.

In response to the mounting pressure in May 2026, the 79-year-old president called for sudden board elections. Refusing to step down, Pérez challenged his critics to run against him, denouncing an absurd campaign aimed at destabilizing his leadership. He remains firmly in control, utilizing his immense influence to protect the club's interests and plan for its future resurgence.

Florentino Pérez was born and raised in Madrid, Spain, where he developed a deep, lifelong passion for his hometown football club. He was married to María de los Ángeles Sandoval, affectionately known to friends and family as Pitina. They shared 42 years of marriage and raised three children together before her tragic passing in 2012.

Following his wife's death, Pérez poured his energy into his dual roles as a corporate executive and sports administrator. He is highly protective of his private life, rarely granting personal interviews and preferring to maintain a strictly professional public persona.

Despite his advancing age, the 79-year-old remains incredibly active and sharply focused on his monumental responsibilities. In recent 2026 press conferences, he dismissed rumors regarding his health and fatigue, asserting his unwavering commitment to leading both Grupo ACS and Real Madrid for years to come.