Arsene Wenger mulls FIFA presidential bid

Arsene Wenger is reportedly weighing a run for the presidency of FIFA and could challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino in the organisation's 2027 election.

The 77-year-old Frenchman has not yet made a formal announcement but is said to be moving closer to entering the race. He is expected to give an answer around the middle of next week after holding a series of meetings with people urging him to accept the challenge.

Background and support

Wenger currently serves as FIFA's Director of Global Football Development. His international reputation and long experience in the game are seen as assets that could help unite member associations that have been critical of the current leadership.

Sources indicate Wenger enjoys significant popularity across Africa and Asia, and that some FIFA employees are encouraging his potential candidacy. Philippe Diallo, president of the French Football Federation, has publicly noted that Wenger possesses the authority and international standing to take part in such a campaign.

The FIFA presidential election is scheduled for 18 March 2027 in Rabat, Morocco, and the deadline to submit nominations is 18 November 2026. Gianni Infantino has already announced his intention to seek another term. If Wenger decides to run and succeeds, it is expected that because of his age he would restrict himself to a single four-year term.

At the moment there is no official candidacy from Wenger, and his final decision is expected in the coming days.

Photo: press material from the event