Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is reportedly considering challenging FIFA president Gianni Infantino in the March 2027 election. The Frenchman has gained support from influential European football figures, potentially setting up a significant contest for football’s top administrative position.
Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is reportedly considering entering the race for FIFA president, potentially challenging incumbent Gianni Infantino in the election scheduled for March 18, 2027. The possibility of Wenger contesting the top position in world football has gained momentum in recent weeks, with several influential figures in European football reportedly encouraging him to put forward his candidature.
According to a BBC report, the 77-year-old Frenchman has not yet made a final decision but is seriously considering the possibility of challenging Infantino for the leadership of football’s global governing body. Several prominent supporters reportedly believe Wenger could emerge as a strong alternative to the current FIFA president and are prepared to support his candidature if he decides to enter the electoral contest.
Wenger’s potential entry into the presidential race could introduce a significant challenge for Infantino, who has remained at the helm of FIFA since 2016. However, the Frenchman’s age has reportedly emerged as one of the concerns among those assessing his potential candidacy. Questions have been raised about his ability to lead the organisation throughout a complete four-year presidential term.
Infantino, the Swiss-Italian football administrator, assumed the FIFA presidency in February 2016 following the departure of former president Sepp Blatter. Since then, he has successfully secured re-election twice, in 2019 and 2023, on both occasions without facing an opposing candidate.
The next presidential election is scheduled to take place during the 77th FIFA Congress in Rabat, Morocco, on March 18, 2027. Infantino is widely expected to seek another term, although Wenger’s possible involvement could make the upcoming election more competitive and attract considerable attention from the international football community.
Infantino’s leadership has faced criticism and scrutiny over several controversial decisions during his tenure. One of the major issues involved a proposal to introduce private investors into FIFA competitions through the sale of minority ownership stakes. The proposal generated considerable opposition among football stakeholders, particularly in Europe, where concerns were expressed about the potential influence of private investment on the governance and commercial structure of the sport.
UEFA, European football’s governing body, also raised the possibility of boycotting FIFA competitions, including the FIFA World Cup, amid the controversy. The threat was eventually withdrawn after assurances were reportedly received that the proposed ownership arrangements would not be pursued.
Meanwhile, Wenger has maintained a prominent position in international football administration since bringing his remarkable managerial career at Arsenal to an end in 2018. The Frenchman spent 22 years managing the north London club, becoming one of the most influential managers in Premier League history.
During his successful spell at Arsenal, Wenger guided the club to three Premier League titles and seven FA Cup trophies. His most remarkable achievement came during the 2003-04 season, when Arsenal completed an unbeaten Premier League campaign, earning the historic nickname ‘The Invincibles’.
Following his departure from Arsenal, Wenger joined FIFA in 2019 as Chief of Global Football Development. In this position, he has been involved in initiatives aimed at improving football standards, expanding development opportunities and strengthening the sport across different regions.
He also chairs FIFA’s Technical Study Group, contributing to discussions on football development, technical improvements and possible changes to the laws of the game. His administrative experience and long-standing involvement in international football have strengthened his profile beyond club management.
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Wenger’s potential presidential bid could therefore bring a different perspective to FIFA’s leadership, particularly given his extensive experience in coaching, player development and football administration. However, whether he will officially enter the contest remains uncertain.
With the March 2027 election approaching, attention is likely to remain focused on Infantino’s re-election plans and Wenger’s next move. If the former Arsenal manager decides to challenge the incumbent president, the election could become one of the most closely watched leadership contests in international football.
