Barcelona president Joan Laporta attended the forum themed "Barcelona: History and Future" and shared his views on Real Madrid, La Liga president Javier Tebas, and the Negreira case.
What do you think of the relationship with Real Madrid?
We originally planned to restore calm to football by returning to the European Club Association (ECA) and UEFA. But Real Madrid has panicked after seeing Barcelona’s revival. We want to replicate the achievements of my first term in office, yet someone has been trying to smear the most glorious period in Barça’s history. Back then, Barça was the dominant force in Europe, conquered the world, and became a benchmark for football tactics.
This is a smear campaign against Barcelona. I have no need to apologize. The Negreira case involves referee reports, and an apology is only necessary if there was intentional wrongdoing. I do not agree with the stance of constant apologies. This is clearly a campaign to damage Barça’s reputation, and the evidence is conclusive. We once had the best team in history – that was the club’s golden age, and I will always defend this historical status.
On the Negreira case
The case will continue until the judge halts it. Current judicial proceedings have clearly shown that Barcelona did not bribe referees, and there is no solid evidence for any allegations. The trial would only be extended if new evidence emerges, but as it stands, the verdict has been delayed. We have already been convicted in public opinion before the trial.
I am convinced that Barcelona will ultimately be acquitted. Certain forces want to keep the incident alive, constantly hyping the claim that Barça benefited from referees. This is not only a lie but also ignores the fact that the President of the Referees' Committee has been a Real Madrid member for 72 years. Real Madrid holds significant power, and defeating such a powerful force makes our victories even more valuable.
What do you think of Tebas’ claim that Real Madrid exerts pressure through its TV station?
Perhaps they should look at the influence Real Madrid TV exerts on referees – that kind of interference has long crossed the line.
How do you evaluate Florentino Pérez?
Florentino is a rational and judicious person. The version of him I knew when I first took office was more aggressive; we had fierce conflicts over the transfer of Samuel Eto'o. He may have easier access to the power elite than we do, but that does not mean abusing power. Anyone in the legal profession knows that facts can be interpreted in multiple ways, and he is not omnipotent. However, I maintain a decent and friendly relationship with Florentino.
Current relationship with Tebas?
We have had differences but generally get along well. He is an honest person who keeps his word and has rich experience. I do not trust those who try to oust him. We have established a cooperative relationship and abide by the rules. If the Madrid side intends to force him out, I have noticed that Real Madrid has an obsession with this. I maintain a normal working relationship with Tebas; he regards Barcelona as an important club, which is why we accepted the proposal for a match in Miami, even though the Spanish Sports Council did not approve it. I would rather Tebas openly admit he is a Real Madrid fan.
