BARCELONA — Joan Laporta commenced his fourth term as Barcelona president on July 3, 2026. The leadership period began with an official ceremony where Laporta delivered a speech. Following the official events, Laporta participated in a traditional match held in honor of Johan Cruyff. Laporta previously held the presidency of Barcelona between 2003 and 2010, and again from 2021 to 2026, with an intervening period out of power from 2010 to 2021.

Pep Guardiola attended the event marking the beginning of Laporta's term. Guardiola and Laporta were photographed together at the event. Laporta had appointed Guardiola as Barcelona manager in 2008. Guardiola departed from Barcelona in 2012, later managing Bayern Munich for three years and Manchester City for four years. Guardiola recently concluded his tenure at Manchester City and is currently taking a break from coaching.

Hansi Flick also attended events connected to Laporta's inauguration. Flick, who is 61 years old, currently serves as Barcelona's coach. Flick stated that Barcelona will be his final team before his retirement. Joan Laporta's return to the Barcelona presidency for a fourth term establishes continuity in the club's leadership following his previous tenures. The presence of key figures like Pep Guardiola, whom Laporta appointed as manager in 2008, and current coach Hansi Flick at the inaugural events indicates an alignment among individuals associated with the club's past and present. Flick's statement regarding Barcelona being his last team before retirement provides an outlook on the duration of his coaching role with the club.