ABSTRACT
The focus of this chapter is the interplay of power and politics at FC Barcelona, with specific reference to the club's presidencies in the contemporary era. It begins by contextualising the political history of FC Barcelona within the mosaic of the politicised nature of Spanish football, whilst examining the club within the specific landscapes of Catalan political culture and tradition. The chapter then considers the motives, issues and concerns defining the evolving role of the presidency over time. The remaining sections analyse some of the most notable contemporary incumbents of the office, shedding light on their ideological beliefs, their impact and use of presidential power and their influence on the institutional dynamics and democratic credentials of the club. As is the case in other chapters in the volume, this work draws on relevant academic and wider literature in English, Spanish and Catalan. It also gives voice to some experienced perspectives regarding FC Barcelona presidencies.
