Joan Laporta won the Barcelona presidential election and will remain in charge of the Spanish team despite the criticism he has received recently.

On his first official day of activities of this new cycle, the president not only outlined the club's sporting and economic roadmap, but also addressed one of the most sensitive issues for the fans: the institutional relationship with Lionel Messi.

Laporta's thanks to Messi after winning re-election

During the election campaign, the Argentine star's name was repeatedly used by the opposition to question Laporta's management in the past. However, the president appreciated the distant stance maintained by the current Inter Miami player throughout the process.

I would be happy to fix the relationship, which is not that bad. I appreciate that he has not taken a position

Joan Lapota sobre Messi

Laporta acknowledged and thanked the "10" for his silence in the face of attempts by other candidates, such as Victor Font, to obtain his public support.

Laporta's response to Xavi's criticism

Laporta also took the opportunity to respond to recent statements by Xavi Hernandez, who in an interview pointed to him as the direct person responsible for Messi's departure. Although he admitted that the blow was personal, the president was firm in his position.

🚨 𝗢𝗙𝗙𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗔𝗟: Joan Laporta has WON the presidential elections and will remain FC Barcelona president until 2031! pic.twitter.com/DNfd1XTHzj

— The Touchline | 𝐓 (@TouchlineX) March 15, 2026

"On a personal level, the interview hurt me, but the response was overwhelming. It didn't hurt us, I think it even went well for us. It could be summed up that we were addressing the happy Cule while others were going to the angry Cule," he said.

Laporta won and is happy, but he knows that there are still many challenges, where the priority is the renewal of Flick and regaining the club's financial stability.