Joan Laporta has won re-election and a fourth stint as FC Barcelona president.
The 63-year-old received 68.18% of the votes, more than double that of his rival Victor Font who recorded 29.78%.
There was a moment of class between the two candidates who hugged when the final tally had come in, ending a passionate contest that often saw debates end with smiles and signs of respect.
“Long live Barça and long live Catalonia,” Font said after the embrace.
“Well said,” replied the re-elected Laporta. “Now, let’s win the Champions League!”
In an election dominated by Laporta’s relationship with Lionel Messi, it may have been his current stars who won out.
Throughout the day huge names trickled through, with three-time women’s Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati arriving to vote with Laporta.
Later, club legend Sergio Busquets did the same, a blow to Font’s backing from Xavi with one of his old teammate’s going the other direction.
Current No.10 Lamine Yamal also posted a show of support on social media, and later his teammates turned up to secure victory for Laporta.
Arriving after a 5-2 LaLiga win over Sevilla, captain and hat-trick hero Raphinha led a selection of teammates in, along with fellow goalscorer Dani Olmo.
Hansi Flick led in Marc Casadó, Fermín, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Bernal, Gerard Martín, and Pedri, among others.
After placing their votes, a huddle and dance then broke out with Laporta, which could only be described as a victory dance.
Font’s message
Speaking shortly after losing the election, Font said: “I want to congratulate Joan Laporta on an undeniable victory at the polls.
“I want to thank all the members who turned out. That shows we are the best club in the world. And also everyone who placed their trust in the candidacy for change.
“We are saddened because we were very excited about transforming the club and bringing it closer to its fans. It’s a shame.
“But we accept the result, as we must, and congratulate the president-elect, Joan Laporta, and his board of directors.”
He finished: “What we’ve been advocating for is a different kind of Barça. It’s a cause we will continue to defend. It’s a noble cause, a national cause, and it’s truly worthwhile.
“I will continue working and striving to make Barça what I dream it to be.”
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