Wenger Weighs Presidential Bid Against Infantino in FIFA Elections
Arsene Wenger, the former Arsenal boss and current FIFA chief of global football development, is mulling over a potential run against Gianni Infantino in the upcoming FIFA presidential election.
For weeks, prominent voices in European football have been eager for the Frenchman to enter the race, and it appears he is now seriously considering it.
At 77 years old, Wenger has garnered support from influential figures in the game, some of whom believe he could win the presidency and then step down before completing a full term.
Infantino's reign took a hit recently after backlash from his failed attempt to sell World Cup commercial stakes to private investors. Despite the controversy, he claims to enjoy strong backing from regions like South America, Africa, and Asia, asserting he has the support of the "vast, vast majority" of the football community.
But if Wenger decides to run, that support may be put to the test.
As FIFA's head of global development, Wenger could count on UEFA's backing, which has been a vocal opponent of Infantino, and he carries significant credibility across the football landscape.
Insiders suggest Wenger has yet to finalize his decision, and many still view Infantino as the frontrunner for a fourth term in the March election, with the candidate confirmation deadline set for November 18.
Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega was the first to announce his candidacy last month, followed by Kozo Tashima, the honorary president of the Japan Football Association.
FIFA recently stated that key documents related to Infantino's controversial plan would be shared with council members, but only under strict protocols at its Zurich headquarters.
UEFA has pressed FIFA to release details about the contentious FIFA Forward Enterprise proposal by November 2, seeking clarity after Infantino's apology for the failed sell-off but without a thorough explanation of how it came to be.
Wenger distanced himself from the debacle, stating, "I was not involved in this strategic plan and first became aware of the project through media reports. The decision to withdraw the project was absolutely necessary and beyond question, because I firmly believe in an independent FIFA that serves our game with commitment, transparency, and integrity."
While Wenger has stirred controversy in his FIFA role with proposals like biennial World Cups and a new offside law, he also enjoys a strong global reputation. His advocacy for an expanded 48-team World Cup aligns with his commitment to developing the game in regions outside of traditional powerhouses.
Infantino's re-election hopes have received a boost from support in Asia, following his commitment to increase funding, while Wenger's historical backing of African players during his Arsenal tenure continues to resonate positively in that continent.
