Wenger withdraws from FIFA presidential race

FIFA Global Football Development Director Arsene Wenger has withdrawn from the race, although he had been considering a bid for the FIFA presidency. According to BBC Sport, the 76-year-old Frenchman, whose candidacy had been under discussion for some time, will not take part in the presidential election. Had Wenger run, he was expected to receive the backing of UEFA, which opposes Gianni Infantino.

Infantino's plan to sell part of the World Cup's commercial rights to private investors drew strong criticism and brought his position as president into question. After the plan was dropped, UEFA moved to find an alternative candidate who could stand against Infantino. Wenger's withdrawal has strengthened the position of Infantino, who is preparing for a fourth term as president.

UEFA is reported to still hope to find an alternative candidate before applications close on Wednesday. The first person to announce a candidacy for the FIFA presidency in October was former Tottenham player Ramon Vega. Kozo Tashima, Honorary President of the Japan Football Association, has also said he intends to enter the race.

It has been reported that Tashima, 68, has not yet secured the support of the five federations required for a candidacy, but that he is continuing his efforts.