Perez ‘furious’ after Real Madrid presidential rival invited to derby box

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez reportedly threatened to leave the Madrid derby after learning that former presidential election rival Enrique Riquelme had been invited to the presidential box.

The incident came during a difficult Sunday for Real, who lost 2-1 to Atletico Madrid and are now six points behind Barcelona in the table.

Real Madrid strongly protested a refereeing decision during the match, while Perez also came in for criticism following the reported confrontation in the stands.

Journalist Juanma Castano said Perez became angry after discovering that Riquelme had been invited to watch the derby from the presidential box, rather than the VIP section.

Speaking on Cadena COPE, Castano said: “There was a commotion in the stands. Before the match, there was a lunch between the club directors because Florentino Perez has a very good relationship with Atletico Madrid president Enrique Cerezo.”

He added: “Then someone said to Florentino: ‘We have learned that Enrique Riquelme has been invited to the presidential box. Not the VIP box, but the presidential box.’”

Castano said Perez reacted angrily and initially intended to leave.

“Florentino became extremely angry and said he would leave,” he said. “Those present calmed him down and Florentino stayed to watch the match, but he was extremely upset.”

Riquelme previously stood against Perez in the Real Madrid presidential election. Castano suggested that the reaction could ultimately strengthen his rival’s prospects of leading the club in the future.

“This behaviour from Florentino increases Riquelme’s chances,” Castano said. “Every day, his chances of becoming president of Real Madrid in the future increase.”