Challenger João Noronha Lopes has vowed to continue his campaign for the presidency of Portuguese football club Benfica, framing the upcoming run-off as a fight for a “new direction” against the current leadership.
Speaking on Sunday, minutes after initial results were announced, Lopes asserted that nearly 60% of Benfica members do not identify with the club’s present trajectory. He stated his intention to rally these dissatisfied members behind his bid.
Lopes, who finished second to Rui Costa in the first round of voting, stressed that the run-off on November 8 will be a “new election.” This second round, he added, will allow for a more profound discussion of competing ideas and projects.
“One does not give up on Benfica, and I do not give up on Benfica,” Lopes told journalists. He affirmed his energy, conviction, and determination remain as strong as when he launched his candidacy in June.
While acknowledging the initial results were not what he desired, Lopes expressed “democratic humility” regarding the sovereignty of the members’ votes. He congratulated Rui Costa and the other candidates for their participation.
Lopes plans an intensive campaign, traveling “to all corners of Portugal” and visiting Benfica fan clubs to engage with members. He intends to explain his vision more clearly and serve as an aggregator for those seeking a new direction for the club.
He did not speak with former president Vieira or any other candidates following the first round of voting. Lopes lauded the overall election process as a “historic journey” for the club, which set a world record for voting participation, showcasing Benfica’s robust associativism.
Lopes confirmed he was not satisfied with securing 30% of the vote, having anticipated a higher outcome. He dismissed a question regarding campaign messages as a “non-issue,” stating his team had clarified it was intended for volunteers.
He hopes the second round will again serve as an example of democratic participation, potentially breaking further voting records, and lead to a productive discussion that ultimately benefits the club.