Former Celtic Defender Vega Announces FIFA Presidential Bid
Ramon Vega, who had a brief spell at Celtic, aims to challenge Gianni Infantino, citing a need for reform and restored trust in global football.
Former Celtic defender Ramon Vega has declared his intention to run for the FIFA presidency, setting his sights on challenging incumbent Gianni Infantino.
Vega, a 55-year-old Swiss national, announced his candidacy for the upcoming election. He spent part of the 2000-01 season on loan at Celtic Park from Tottenham Hotspur, contributing to the team's domestic treble win. Since retiring from professional football in 2004, Vega has worked in finance. He stated his platform is built on reuniting the global football family, delivering genuine reform, modernizing FIFA, and restoring stability and credibility to the organization.
This is not the first time Vega has considered a run for FIFA's top position. He contemplated standing in 2015 following the suspension of then-president Sepp Blatter and also indicated he would challenge Infantino four years later, though he did not secure enough support to be included in the ballot on that occasion.
Vega expressed his belief that football belongs to its supporters, players, coaches, and referees, not to presidents or administrators. He criticized the current leadership for demoralizing the game and damaging FIFA's credibility through weak governance and internal conflicts.
"Football is in the emergency room, on life support," Vega stated. "We cannot wait any longer. Fifa needs a new direction and fundamental reform."
Infantino has faced significant pressure to step down, with calls for his resignation coming from UEFA and continental confederations. Despite this, Infantino has maintained his commitment to his current role.