Barcelona Election Pivots to Messi as Font Vows On-Field Farewell, Laporta Pushes Stability

Any tribute on the pitch would hinge on Messi’s wishes and Inter Miami’s consent.

Overview

Presidential candidate Víctor Font pledged to bring Lionel Messi back for a playing farewell at Spotify Camp Nou and to name him Honorary President if elected.
Font argued reconciliation will not happen under Joan Laporta, accusing the current board of misleading Messi in 2021 and again during 2023 efforts to return.
Reporting says Messi is under contract with Inter Miami through 2028, so any short-term appearance for Barcelona would require an agreement with the MLS club.
Font’s platform includes exploring a strategic partnership with Inter Miami and a long-term commercial plan linking the Messi and Barça brands.
Laporta, considered the favorite as the opposition remains fragmented, campaigns on continuity and symbolic tributes such as a statue or testimonial, with the vote cited for March 16 in multiple reports.