With FC Barcelona’s presidential election approaching, speculation swirled that club icon Lionel Messi might take sides and back a candidate — potentially countering Joan Laporta. Recent reports, however, indicate the opposite: Messi does not intend to intervene in the electoral process.
According to the latest update cited by media outlets, Messi plans to remain completely on the sidelines and will not endorse any candidate. His current focus lies elsewhere: he is playing in the United States with Inter Miami and is concentrating on preparations for the next FIFA World Cup, which will take place in the country where he is currently active.
The decision not to get involved is aimed at avoiding any influence on the club’s internal political process, despite strained ties with the incumbent president. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will not back anyone publicly and intends to wait until the election finishes.
Longer term, Messi still envisages a return to Barcelona — a plan he has mentioned in recent interviews — but the exact form and timing remain unclear. Sources stress that any comeback will be considered only after the electoral period and following the conclusion of the World Cup.
Published on 05/02/2026. By Michel Duran.