Who Owns Barcelona Soccer?

By Anna Duncan

Barcelona Soccer is one of the most popular soccer teams in the world. The team has a long and storied history, with a fan base that stretches across the globe.

But who owns Barcelona Soccer? Let’s take a closer look.

Ownership Structure

Barcelona Soccer is owned by its members, who are also known as socios. The club operates under a unique ownership structure, which is known as “socios system.” Under this system, the members of the club have voting rights and elect the board of directors.

Who are Socios?

Socios are essentially club members who have purchased shares in the team. These shares give them the right to vote on important decisions related to the club, including electing board members and approving major financial transactions.

The Board of Directors

The board of directors is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of Barcelona Soccer. They are elected by the socios and serve four-year terms. The president of Barcelona Soccer is also elected by socios and serves as both the public face of the team and its chief executive officer.

Notable Owners

While Barcelona Soccer is owned collectively by its socios, there have been some notable individuals who have held positions on the board or invested in shares of the team.

  • Joan Laporta: Laporta served as president of Barcelona from 2003 to 2010 and oversaw one of the most successful periods in team history.
  • Sandor Rosell: Rosell served as president from 2010 to 2014 but resigned amid controversy over alleged financial improprieties.
  • Lionel Messi: Messi, widely regarded as one of soccer’s greatest players ever, has been a Barcelona player since he was 13 years old and has invested in shares of the team.

The Future of Ownership

Barcelona Soccer’s ownership structure is unique in the world of professional sports, and it remains to be seen how it will evolve in the future. The team has faced financial challenges in recent years, and some have called for changes to the socios system to allow for more outside investment.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Barcelona Soccer is owned by its members, known as socios. This unique ownership structure allows for fan involvement in the management of the team, but also presents challenges when it comes to financial stability. As the club looks to navigate an uncertain future, it will be interesting to see how its ownership structure evolves.