Former Spurs defender Vega to stand for Fifa presidency

Ramon Vega, a former Tottenham and Switzerland centreback, has declared his intention to run against incumbent Fifa president Gianni Infantino in next year's election. The 55-year-old, who has been working in finance since retiring from football in 2004, was previously considering a bid against Infantino following Sepp Blatter's resignation in 2015 due to a corruption scandal.

However, Vega failed to secure enough support to make the ballot in 2022. He now believes that Fifa's member associations are more receptive to change than they were during his previous attempt. Vega has announced his candidacy in an 11-page dossier, stating that he is standing because his life has prepared him to serve the game.

He emphasizes his duty and social responsibility to protect and defend football, its integrity, people, and future. Vega highlights the growing pressure on Infantino, who has lost support from numerous Fifa member associations due to concerns over transparency, accountability, and institutional responsibility. In his announcement, Vega calls for rebuilding trust and credibility within football and reuniting the global football family.

To meet the criteria for standing, Vega must gain the backing of at least five of Fifa's 211 member federations and be proposed by one of those. Additionally, he must have been involved in football for two of the previous five years and pass an eligibility review, with the deadline for meeting these requirements being November 18.