Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger is reportedly in the final stages of considering a bid for the presidency of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). The election is set to take place on March 18, 2027, in Rabat, Morocco. According to sources, Wenger has been advised by several top European football leaders to enter the race and challenge current president Gianni Infantino.
Wenger, currently FIFA's Director of Global Football Development, has been contemplating the possibility for several weeks and is now taking it seriously. However, he has not yet made a final decision on whether to run. Candidates are expected to declare their intentions by November 18, 2026. The motivation behind seeking a challenger to Infantino stems from tensions within FIFA, particularly regarding a plan to sell shares in its commercial business related to the World Cup to private investors.
The plan has faced significant opposition from various football associations, including UEFA. Wenger expressed that he was not involved in preparing the plan and only learned about it through the media. He later supported the decision to withdraw it, emphasizing the importance of transparency, integrity, and independence for FIFA. Wenger's path to the presidency will not be easy, given Infantino's continued strong support from African, Asian, South American, and Oceanian football associations.
To be eligible to run, a candidate must secure nominations from at least five FIFA member associations. Kozo Tashima, former President of the Japan Football Association, has already announced his candidacy. Wenger, with his 22-year history of managing Arsenal, where he won three English Premier League titles and seven FA Cups, may now be entering one of the biggest leadership challenges of his football career.
Wenger's potential candidacy has garnered attention from various media outlets, including The Telegraph, Sky Sports, and Press Association. His involvement in the race could bring significant changes to FIFA, particularly in light of recent controversies. The French football legend has maintained a high profile in the football world and could potentially draw support from various quarters.
A successful bid would require Wenger to navigate complex football politics and build a strong coalition of supporters. His experience as a manager and his current role at FIFA could provide a solid foundation for his campaign. However, the competition from incumbent president Infantino and other potential candidates will be intense.
As the November 18 deadline for candidacy declarations approaches, the football world waits with bated breath for Wenger's decision. If he chooses to run, it will undoubtedly be a significant development in the world of football governance. Wenger's consideration of the FIFA presidency has already sparked discussions about the future direction of the organization and the qualities required of its leader.
Key points
- Arsène Wenger is considering a bid for the FIFA presidency, potentially challenging Gianni Infantino in the March 2027 elections.
