{
  "id": 14629751,
  "title": "Could Wenger really take on Infantino and run for Fifa presidency?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/could-wenger-really-take-on-infantino-and-run-for-fifa-presidency",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-15T06:35:39.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "BBC Sport Football",
    "slug": "bbc-sport-football",
    "url": "https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/cx30e8dqmnzgo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Fifa Council will meet in Zurich to discuss a $3.4bn increase in funding for football development, with Gianni Infantino also facing scrutiny over governance reforms, his awarding of the Fifa Peace Prize, and disciplinary procedures following the Folarin Balogun affair. Despite calls for him to step down, Infantino appears likely to be re-elected unopposed for his fourth and final term. There is speculation that former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger could run as a surprise candidate, given his global appeal and respect within the game. However, it is unclear if Wenger is genuinely interested, as he has distanced himself from a controversial plan to sell commercial stakes in the World Cup. Wenger's support in Africa, Asia, and other regions could bolster his chances, but doubts remain about his ability to challenge Infantino effectively.",
  "summary": "Senior figures in European football tell BBC Sport they want former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger to run as a surprise candidate against Gianni Infantino.",
  "key_points": [
    "Arsene Wenger may run as Fifa presidency candidate",
    "Former Arsenal manager has global football appeal",
    "Wenger's support in Africa and Asia could help campaign"
  ],
  "editors_take": "A potential challenge from Arsene Wenger would represent a rare disruption to the expected unopposed re-election of Gianni Infantino amidst growing scrutiny over his leadership and governance reforms.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 2,
    "also_reported_by": [
      {
        "outlet": "BBC Sport",
        "title": "Could Wenger really take on Infantino and run for Fifa presidency?",
        "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/15/could-wenger-really-take-on-infantino-and-run-for-fifa-presidency-14636498",
        "published": "2026-10-15T06:35:39.000Z"
      }
    ]
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}