BREAKING: Ceferin Set To Seek Fourth Term As UEFA President

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has announced his decision to seek a fourth term as president of European football’s governing body after accepting a request from the continent’s national football associations.

Ceferin made the announcement during a meeting of the 55 UEFA member association presidents in Berlin, reversing his earlier decision not to contest another term in office.

The Slovenian, who was first elected UEFA president in 2016, had stated in February 2024 that he would not seek re-election. His position came amid controversy over changes to UEFA’s statutes that opened the possibility of him serving a fourth term.

However, Ceferin said he changed his position after receiving a request from the national associations and considering the work that remains to be completed within European football.

According to reports, Ceferin expressed gratitude to the associations for their confidence and said he believed there was still important work ahead for UEFA.

He said his priority would remain keeping European football united, strengthening the game and ensuring that the organisation is prepared for the next generation.

Ceferin’s decision comes as UEFA continues to push for changes within FIFA and increases its efforts to influence the future direction of world football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino is expected to seek another term, although Ceferin has previously ruled out personally challenging him.

Instead, the UEFA president has indicated that European football could support a candidate capable of bringing greater unity to the global game.

Former Tottenham Hotspur defender Ramon Vega has reportedly expressed an interest in contesting the FIFA presidency, although he would still need to secure the necessary support to appear on the ballot.

Meanwhile, UEFA and 54 of its 55 national associations, with Azerbaijan the only exception, have agreed on a 14-point proposal for FIFA reforms.

The proposals include reducing the direct powers of the FIFA president, strengthening the independence of ethics and disciplinary bodies, and preventing political or executive interference in oversight structures.

UEFA has also called for each of FIFA’s 211 member associations to receive at least $10 million in additional funding, while insisting that FIFA resources should not be used to advance personal or electoral interests.

Ceferin’s decision to seek a fourth term is therefore expected to play a significant role in UEFA’s leadership and its wider push for reforms within global football.