Ramon Vega challenges Gianni Infantino for the FIFA presidency
The former Swiss defender Ramon Vega, 55, has announced his candidacy for the FIFA presidency, becoming the first public challenger to Gianni Infantino for the elections to be held in early 2027. The vote is expected next year and the process requires submitting the candidacy before November 18.
Profile of the former Swiss defender
Vega played for clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur, Glasgow's Celtic, Grasshopper Club Zürich, Cagliari, Watford and Créteil. According to one source, he wore the Swiss shirt on 29 occasions; another cites 23 international matches. He retired in 2003 and has since worked in the financial sector.
Election timetable and requirements
Candidacies must be submitted before November 18. The vote will take place on May 18 according to one source, while another points to March 18; both agree that the congress will be held in Rabat, Morocco. The event corresponds to FIFA's 77th congress.
Vega's objectives and programme
"I am running to bring the football family together and to carry out a reform and modernization of FIFA, restore its stability and credibility, and rebuild the trust that our sport urgently needs," Vega said. He added that "football does not belong to presidents, confederations or administrations" and that the current presidency has demoralized the sport.
Gianni Infantino's response
Infantino, despite the controversy generated by his intention to sell private stakes in the World Cup and the numerous calls for his resignation, said he will stand for re‑election.
Ramon Vega challenges Infantino – Swiss former pro wants FIFA presidency
Opposition context
The Swiss Football Federation withdrew its support for Infantino last month, and both UEFA and the CONCACAF confederation have expressed strong opposition to the current president.
Historial de aspiraciones de Vega
Vega showed interest in the FIFA presidency in 2015, 2019 and 2022, although he had never announced a formal candidacy until now.
Achievements as a player
With Tottenham he won the League Cup in 1999 and, with Celtic, achieved the domestic treble (League, Cup and League Cup) in the 2000‑2001 season. He finished his career at the French club Créteil.
Vega challenges Infantino for FIFA presidency in 2025
The announcement was made on Wednesday, Mon, according to the BBC.