Barcelona is set to enter its election period in the coming days, with voting scheduled for March 15. Joan Laporta is expected to step down next week to stand for re-election, where he is widely viewed as the front-runner. So far, three pre-candidates have confirmed their intention to run: Víctor Font—Laporta’s main challenger and runner-up in the last election—along with Xavi Vilajoana and Marc Ciria.
One figure with the potential to shape the entire process is Leo Messi. The former Barça star recently made a surprise visit to the Spotify Camp Nou to see the progress of the stadium renovation. Images he shared online quickly went viral, sparking speculation about whether the Argentine might play a role in the upcoming elections.
Messi’s influence
If Messi were to publicly back a candidate, his endorsement could sway a significant number of votes. However, that scenario is not expected. At present, Messi has no intention of getting involved and plans to remain completely neutral, offering no support to any contender.
Focused on the World Cup
Right now, Messi’s priorities lie elsewhere. He is competing in MLS with Inter Miami and, more importantly, preparing for the next World Cup, which will take place in the United States—the same country where he currently plays. With Argentina set to defend their title and the tournament likely to be his last, it represents a major milestone in his career.
Future return to Barcelona
Against this backdrop, Messi prefers to stay out of Barcelona’s electoral race. He has reiterated in recent interviews his desire to return to the club at some point, though the capacity in which he would do so remains unclear. What is certain is that any comeback will not happen during this election cycle.
The 2021 elections
During the 2021 elections, Messi did not make public statements, but as the team’s captain at the time, his perceived backing leaned toward Laporta due to their past relationship from Laporta’s first presidency. Throughout that campaign, Laporta claimed to have a solution to renew Messi’s contract—something that ultimately never materialized.
A fractured relationship
That episode created a rift between the two. Messi felt misled, and their relationship deteriorated. A failed attempt to bring him back two years later only deepened the divide. Since then, Laporta has tried to rebuild bridges, but Messi has consistently kept his distance.
Even so, despite his strained relationship with the current president, Messi has chosen not to influence the election by siding with any candidate. He plans to wait for the outcome and, once the World Cup is behind him, begin seriously considering his eventual return to Barcelona.
