Joan Laporta officially resigned from his position as president of FC Barcelona in a board meeting held on Monday, where the call for elections was also announced. This move allows him to participate in the upcoming elections scheduled for March 15, 2024. Laporta has been leading the club since 2021, after previously serving from 2003 to 2010, and is seen as the frontrunner in the election process.

Rafael Yuste, who has been the first vice president and a long-time friend of Laporta, has taken over as interim president until the new leader is elected. This transition marks a significant shift for the club as several other board members have also stepped down to join the electoral race. Laporta's tenure has been marked by both successes and challenges, leading to strong public and media scrutiny about his future with the club.

As the elections approach, Laporta's resignation reflects strategic calculations to strengthen his campaign and solidify his support base among fans and stakeholders. His leadership is seen as vital for the club's trajectory, and the outcome of the election could have far-reaching implications for FC Barcelona's future both on and off the field.