Barcelona presidential candidate vows to end links with Qatar

A year of turmoil at Barcelona led to the calling of a presidential election this summer, and the club's money-making association with the Qatari regime looks set to be a key point of debate.

Former president Joan Laporta is the favourite to succeed Josep Maria Bartomeu, but rival Agusti Benedito believes his appeal to the club's sense of history and tradition can win over the support of the club's 150,000 members. Part of that philosophy will be an end to a partnership worth well over €30 million annually with Qatar, whose human rights record remains under scrutiny. Benedito argues the association is at odds with Barcelona's motto of 'Mes que un club' or 'More than a club'. 'The Qatar contract is a very harmful for Barca,' Benedito told Goal.com. 'It's not an interesting contract financially but, more importantly than that, in terms of image, values and feeling, for what Barca represents, I believe the club should stay well away from the Qatar regime. 'My commitment is to break, or at least not renew, the relations with Qatar.' Benedito is also keen to ensure Lionel Messi remains the cornerstone of the first team, adding: 'Leo is fundamantal for Barcelona in the coming years. It would be a huge mistake to sell Messi or to provoke his exit. Let's hope that doesn't happen. 'I hope and trust he will be here for many years to come.'