Arsene Wenger tipped to challenge Gianni Infantino for FIFA presidency

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is being considered as a potential challenger to Gianni Infantino in the 2027 FIFA presidential election, as opposition to the incumbent grows. According to The Times, those seeking a change in FIFA leadership hope to persuade Wenger, currently the organisation’s chief of global football development, to enter the race.

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, is seeking re-election but faces criticism following several controversial decisions, including an abandoned proposal to sell a stake in a company managing FIFA competitions. The election is scheduled for March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco, with nominations closing on November 18, 2026. Wenger has not confirmed any intention to contest the presidency.