Joan Laporta, the former president of FC Barcelona, has kicked off his pre-campaign for the upcoming club elections scheduled for March 15. During his launch event, he confidently presented his candidacy, emphasizing his belief in the team's potential to win the league. Laporta's rhetoric was both assertive and charismatic, focusing on his previous accomplishments and contrasting his experience with that of his competitors, including Víctor Font, Marc Ciria, and Xavier Vilajoana. He also adopted the campaign slogan 'Defensem el Barça' (Defend the Barça) to emphasize his commitment to the club.

In his speech, Laporta did not shy away from attacking the refereeing standards, suggesting that officials often make calls that harm Barcelona's chances. This remark underscores a sentiment that resonates with many fans who feel that the club is often unfairly treated in matches. His comments about referees can be seen as part of a broader strategy to rally support from the fanbase and frame his campaign around defending the club's interests, particularly in a league where contentious officiating can significantly impact outcomes.

Laporta's return to the political arena at Barcelona is significant, considering his previous tenure where he helped the club achieve considerable success. His approach contrasts with the view that Barcelona should be run purely as a business, asserting instead that the club's governance model should prioritize its rich history and culture. As the elections approach, Laporta aims to present himself as not only a candidate with experience but as a protector of Barcelona’s values and legacy, setting the stage for a competitive electoral race among his rivals.