UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has ruled himself out of the race to replace Gianni Infantino as FIFA president. However he has warned that the Swiss administrator could face a serious challenger if he seeks re-election next year.

Ceferin has emerged as one of Infantino's strongest critics following the collapse of FIFA's controversial proposal to bring private investment into its tournament commercial rights.

The plan faced significant opposition from several football bodies and added to the pressure on Infantino.

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Ceferin made it clear that he is not interested in taking over the FIFA presidency.

“One reason is that I love UEFA and I love working here, and I think that at a certain point you have also, I mean, it’s time also to enjoy life a bit,” Ceferin said.

“Let’s see till when. And the second point is, my credibility is much, much, much higher if I’m not interested in the position.”

Ceferin Warns Infantino Of FIFA Challenge

While ruling himself out, the UEFA chief suggested that Infantino's position could become increasingly difficult if he decides to contest the FIFA presidential election in March 2027.

Ceferin said Infantino has two options. Firstly, recognise that he no longer has sufficient support within the football community and step aside, or contest the election and face an opponent.

“There are two options,” Ceferin said. “One option is that he realises that he doesn’t have the support... And the second option, is that he goes to the elections in March, but in that case, I think he will have a candidate against him. I don’t know yet who.”

The comments come amid growing opposition to Infantino's leadership, with UEFA, CONCACAF and the Asian Football Confederation among the bodies expressing concerns over FIFA's recent direction.

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Infantino Under Growing Pressure

Infantino, who has led FIFA since 2016, had appeared set for another election campaign without significant opposition.

However, the backlash surrounding the abandoned private-investment proposal has changed the political landscape.

A potential challenger has yet to be confirmed, with CONCACAF president Victor Montagliani among the names being discussed as a possible candidate.