Barcelona’s political landscape has taken a dramatic turn after club legend Xavi Hernandez publicly declared his support for Victor Font ahead of the 2026 presidential elections.
The former coach made an unexpected appearance at Font’s latest campaign event, signaling a renewed alliance that could reshape the race for the club’s top seat.
Font’s campaign launch on Monday instantly gained momentum once Xavi stepped into the room. His endorsement was one of the most talked about developments across Catalonia, especially with Barcelona’s elections still months away.
Xavi’s decision to rejoin Font’s project comes after months of private consultations and a shared vision for a more transparent and future-focused club structure.
This renewed partnership is already drawing attention among voting members who see Xavi as one of the most influential figures in Barcelona’s modern era.
This is not their first partnership. In 2021, Font presented Xavi as the central figure of his sporting model, although the former midfielder kept his distance at the time due to his position as a candidate to replace Ronald Koeman as manager.
Now free from any technical role at the club, Xavi’s voice carries even more political weight. His endorsement is expected to shape the narrative heading into the campaign season.
Font also attracted backing from several prominent figures, including former Economic Commission president Jaume Guardiola and well-known executives from both the sporting and business sectors.
Their involvement indicates a growing coalition around the challenger’s proposal for renewed governance and financial transparency.
Xavi’s relationship with Joan Laporta deteriorated over time despite the successes of his coaching tenure. He delivered a La Liga title and a Supercopa but faced pressure after disappointing results, including heavy defeats to Real Madrid and Villarreal.
Although Laporta initially persuaded him to remain, Xavi was eventually dismissed at the end of the 2023-24 season.
Font continues to criticize Laporta’s administration, accusing the club of masking significant financial losses and questioning the handling of the Camp Nou reconstruction project.
These claims have fueled debate within the fanbase at a time when the club still struggles with registration limits and financial recovery.
As Barcelona prepares for elections next year, the showdown between Laporta and Font is growing sharper. With Xavi now openly in Font’s corner, the road to the presidency promises to be one of the most contentious contests in recent club history.
