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FIFA presidential hopeful Vega in it to win it
Former Switzerland captain Ramon Vega says he is standing to win the FIFA presidency next March, arguing that his playing experience, business career and integrity can unite football. He hopes to challenge incumbent Gianni Infantino, whose proposed FIFA Forward Enterprise scheme to sell stakes in major tournaments, including the World Cup, has drawn criticism.
Vega, 55, must secure support from at least five national federations by next Wednesday and show recent involvement in football to qualify for the ballot. He says he has visited more than 140 countries to build backing and has spent his own money on the effort, but has not named supporters. Japan’s former football association chief Kozo Tashima is the only other declared candidate; Infantino remains the favourite, though UEFA’s position is uncertain.
In short
- Ramon Vega is campaigning to become FIFA president.
- He needs backing from five national federations to qualify.
- Infantino remains favourite after criticism of his tournament investment plan.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Vega’s candidacy could offer FIFA a credible alternative by combining top-level playing experience with business expertise, while his emphasis on integrity may appeal to federations concerned about how the organisation is run. A contest could also give members a chance to scrutinise Infantino’s proposed scheme to sell stakes in major tournaments and weigh different approaches to football’s future.
The case against
Infantino’s incumbency and continued status as favourite may reflect confidence among federations in his leadership and the direction FIFA has taken. Vega has yet to name the national federations backing him and must still meet the eligibility requirements, so his claims of broad support and ability to unite football remain unproven.