Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega has confirmed he will stand against Gianni Infantino in next year's FIFA presidential election. The 55-year-old, a former Switzerland international who spent four years at White Hart Lane between 1997 and 2001, retired from football in 2023 and moved into private equity.
Vega announces candidacy
Vega becomes the first man to publicly declare his intention to oppose Infantino, who has already confirmed he will seek a fourth term. Infantino has faced intense criticism in recent months after it emerged he had attempted to sell shares in the World Cup to private investors. The plan was abandoned after a severe public backlash, but several FIFA member federations, including UEFA, have formally expressed a lack of confidence in Infantino.
In a statement, Vega said: "I am standing because my life has prepared me to serve the game. I stand before the global football family with humility, determination and a profound sense of responsibility. Football does not belong to presidents, confederations or administrators. Football is greater than any position, any individual or any institution. Football is in the emergency room, on life support. We cannot wait any longer. FIFA needs a new direction and fundamental reform."
European opposition grows
Football association presidents and general secretaries from across Europe are gathering in Berlin ahead of a UEFA Top Executive Programme meeting on Thursday, where FIFA and its governance will be on the morning agenda. Several European associations, including those of England, Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, Scotland and Wales, have withdrawn support for Infantino following the private investment plan.
There is also discontent over the handling of the Folarin Balogun case at the World Cup, while reports this week claim FIFA's administration ignored its own lawyers' advice and allowed DR Congo to play in an intercontinental play-off despite goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi being ineligible. FIFA has not responded to a request for comment on that matter.
Next steps
The Press Association understands UEFA remains committed to identifying a credible alternative candidate to run against Infantino, though it is unlikely any individual will be settled on at Thursday's meeting. The deadline for candidates to be submitted is November 18.
