Florentino Pérez Rodríguez is a prominent Spanish businessman, civil engineer, and influential figure in both construction and sports. Born in Madrid, he began his career in the public sector before transitioning to private enterprise. In 1991, he founded the construction company Grupo ACS, which under his leadership grew into one of the world's largest construction firms through strategic acquisitions and major infrastructure projects, including highways, airports, and nuclear power plants, with significant international holdings. Pérez is best known globally as the longtime president of Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, a position he first assumed in 2000. During his tenure, he spearheaded the 'Galácticos' era, signing superstar players like Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo, and David Beckham, transforming the club into a global brand and commercial powerhouse. After a brief hiatus from 2006 to 2009, he returned and led Real Madrid to multiple UEFA Champions League titles and domestic successes. He also served as president of the European Club Association from 2007 to 2016, advocating for clubs' interests in European football politics. Beyond business and sports, Pérez has been involved in politics, running unsuccessfully for mayor of Madrid in 1993 and serving as director of the Spanish National Agency of Hydraulic Resources in the 1980s. His influence networks include financial ties to investors like David J. Blitzer and connections within Spain's political and economic elite. Pérez has faced controversies, including allegations of corruption in public contracts during his early career and criticisms over Real Madrid's financial management, though he remains a polarizing yet enduring figure in Spanish society.