The air around Benfica’s presidency race just got a jolt. Luís Filipe Vieira announced he is running again. This move did not surprise Martim Mayer, another candidate. But Mayer didn’t hold back his criticism.
He made it clear that Benfica is “neither a kingdom nor a real estate business.” Mayer believes Vieira treats the club as private property. Vieira even once claimed he “saved its very cobblestones.” Mayer thinks Vieira should not run. This is especially true with ongoing legal cases related to his past time as President. “It makes no sense for him to run again,” Mayer stated. He expects Benfica’s members to see this clearly.
Mayer shared his strong opinions in a statement on social media. “Benfica doesn’t need messianic returns right now,” he stressed. He believes the club needs a fresh start. Vieira had his time, Mayer admitted. He built assets and greatly improved youth development. Mayer recognized this credit.
However, Mayer believes Vieira’s vision is outdated. Vieira once spoke of seeing “a light.” Mayer now feels that light does not guide Vieira’s current thoughts. Benfica is simply too big for old ideas. Mayer used a vivid image: “Instead of trying to light up a worn-out lamp with a blown bulb, he should allow necessary and urgent change.” The club desperately needs this renewal.
Mayer also highlighted a contradiction in Vieira’s behavior. For years, Vieira ignored open debate. He refused to discuss ideas. He even suggested there was “too much” democracy within the club. Now, Vieira demands to be heard and asks for a public platform. Mayer sees these actions as placing personal interests above the club’s.
Benfica’s members have long memories, Mayer reminded everyone. They recall Vieira’s presidency. They remember his sports record, which he proudly cites: 7 championships in 18 years. Mayer posed a direct question for August 2025: “Do we want more of this for Benfica? No. Thank you, but no.”
For Mayer, Benfica needs a new kind of future. It must be built on competence, courage, and truth. The club needs a President who truly loves it every day. That love should guide every decision. A new vision is also vital. This vision must turn Benfica’s social and cultural greatness into titles and international prestige. “There is no more time to lose; it must happen quickly,” Mayer urged.
Mayer ended with an appeal. He asked all Benfica members, and even Luís Filipe Vieira, to listen. He urged them to contribute. They should be guided by the club’s motto, “E Pluribus Unum” (“From Many, One”). This motto is key to Benfica’s greatness. Members should help the club move forward. They should align with its symbol, the Eagle. The Eagle “symbolizes the elevation of the Club’s aspirations, a hallmark of independence, authority, and nobility.” Mayer believes this is “urgently needed.”