Arsène Wenger tipped to challenge Infantino for FIFA presidency

Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger is being considered as a potential challenger to FIFA president Gianni Infantino ahead of the governing body’s presidential election scheduled for March 2027.

According to The Times, opponents of Infantino are working to persuade Wenger, FIFA’s chief of global football development, to contest the election amid growing dissatisfaction with the incumbent’s leadership.

Infantino is seeking another term despite mounting criticism over controversial decisions, including a proposed plan to sell a stake in a company linked to World Cup commercial rights.

The nomination deadline is November 18, with Infantino currently the leading declared candidate.

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega has also announced his intention to challenge the FIFA chief but must secure backing from at least five of FIFA’s 211 member associations to qualify.

Jordan’s Prince Ali bin al-Hussein is another potential contender after previously challenging Infantino.

Wenger’s possible candidacy could provide opponents with a widely respected figure as they seek to challenge Infantino’s leadership of world football.