The China Mail - Wenger Withdraws from FIFA Presidency Race, Clearing Path for Infantino

Former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has decided not to challenge FIFA President Gianni Infantino in next year’s election, according to a report by the Press Association. The 77-year-old Frenchman had emerged as a potential candidate backed by European soccer officials seeking an alternative to Infantino following a dispute over the commercialization of FIFA's major competitions.

Wenger has reportedly informed UEFA, European soccer's governing body, that he will not enter the race before the Nov. 18 registration deadline. UEFA began exploring possible challengers in August, with Wenger considered a particularly strong candidate because of his international reputation and extensive experience in soccer.

The former Arsenal manager has served as FIFA's chief of global football development since 2019. His 22-year tenure at the English club, earlier coaching success in France and Japan, and development work in Africa have helped establish his standing across several continents.

His withdrawal from consideration leaves Infantino facing less opposition as he seeks a fourth term at the FIFA Congress in March. The election comes amid controversy over Infantino's proposal to establish FIFA Forward Enterprise, a company intended to manage commercial rights associated with major FIFA tournaments, including the men's and women's World Cups.

Under the proposal, private investors would have acquired a minority interest in the venture. The prospective investment group included a company founded by Joshua Kushner, whose brother Jared Kushner is married to the daughter of US President Donald Trump. FIFA abandoned the initiative shortly after it became public, following objections from UEFA, the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) and CONCACAF, which oversees soccer in North and Central America and the Caribbean.

Infantino has also faced criticism over FIFA's handling of a disciplinary suspension involving US striker Folarin Balogun during the 2026 World Cup. Trump subsequently acknowledged contacting Infantino personally about the case, adding to questions surrounding the independence of FIFA's disciplinary procedures.

Despite these disputes, Infantino has strengthened his position ahead of the election. He has claimed unanimous support from the Confederation of African Football, while the AFC has reportedly reversed its earlier opposition and decided to back his re-election. Wenger's decision removes a prominent potential challenger, further narrowing the field of candidates seeking to replace the 56-year-old FIFA president.

F.Jackson--ThChM