Messi features in Barça election campaign with giant banner in central Barcelona

Marc Ciria's pre-candidacy unveils a massive 24-meter poster in Gràcia calling for the star's return.

Generic image of a large advertising banner on a building facade in Barcelona.
IA

Generic image of a large advertising banner on a building facade in Barcelona.

Argentine star Leo Messi has unexpectedly taken center stage in the FC Barcelona presidential race following the installation of a massive banner in the heart of Barcelona this Wednesday.

The initiative, led by Marc Ciria and his Moviment 42 group, features a 24x18 meter canvas at the corner of Aribau and Travessera de Gràcia. The image depicts Messi's iconic celebration at the Santiago Bernabéu in April 2017, holding his shirt up to the crowd.
The slogan "Ganes de tornar-te a veure" (Looking forward to seeing you again) mirrors Joan Laporta's famous 2021 campaign move. However, this new message focuses on bringing Messi back to the club to boost the Barça global brand, rather than taunting rivals.
Funded by a group of club members, the banner includes a QR code allowing fans to send video messages to the Rosario-born legend. The project aims to remind the player of his legacy at the club and express the fans' desire for his eventual return.