Wenger rules out FIFA presidential bid as nomination deadline approaches

Arsene Wenger has decided not to enter FIFA's presidential election against Gianni Infantino, BBC Sport reported on Sunday, citing sources. The former Arsenal manager had been considering a challenge but has now ruled himself out, leaving opponents of the incumbent looking elsewhere before the deadline for candidates to come forward.

Watch the highlights:

Wenger, FIFA's head of global football development, would have received UEFA's backing, according to the report by Dan Roan and Laura Scott. European football's governing body has led opposition to Infantino and is said to remain hopeful of identifying another candidate before Wednesday. FIFA had been approached for comment by the BBC.

Other potential challengers have already declared their intentions. Former Tottenham defender Ramon Vega put himself forward in October, while Japan Football Association honorary president Kozo Tashima has also announced plans to stand. However, sources told BBC Sport that Tashima had not yet obtained the five endorsements from member associations required before the deadline. His place in the contest therefore remains uncertain.

BBC Sport's earlier reporting, published on 10 November, identified 18 November as the nomination deadline for the election in March. It said senior European football figures had spent weeks encouraging Wenger to run. Some supporters were prepared to accept a presidency lasting less than a full four-year term, given his age of 77. Sources close to Wenger nevertheless regarded Infantino as the favourite to secure another term.

The search for a challenger follows controversy over FIFA Forward Enterprise, an abandoned proposal involving private investment and commercial rights. In its report on the FIFA Council meeting on 15 October, the BBC said Infantino apologised for failures in communication and consultation. Football Association chair Debbie Hewitt said requested documents and explanations had not been provided, leaving questions about the project's development unresolved.

Wenger had publicly distanced himself from that proposal, saying he learned of it through media coverage and supported its withdrawal. His decision not to contest the election removes a prospective candidate who had attracted European support, but does not settle the race. Infantino, who is seeking a fourth term, has retained backing in South America, Africa and Asia, according to the BBC.