Former Spurs defender set to challenge Gianni Infantino for FIFA presidency

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega has announced his intention to challenge Gianni Infantino in next year’s FIFA presidential election. Vega, who also played for Watford and Celtic, is the first publicly declared rival to Infantino, who is expected to seek re-election. According to The Independent, the former Switzerland international wants to “reunite the global football family” and restore confidence in FIFA.

Vega, who moved into finance after retiring in 2004, criticised the current leadership and called for fundamental governance reforms. He said football had been damaged by divisions within its administration and argued that players, coaches, referees and supporters should remain at the heart of decision-making. Infantino has faced growing criticism following controversies surrounding FIFA since the 2026 World Cup, but has maintained his commitment to continuing as president.