Will Trump Make FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Next UN Secretary-General? Buzz After World Cup Bond

Published 22 July 2026 · sports

Will Trump Make FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Next UN Secretary-General? Buzz After World Cup Bond Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 07:04 IST The

Will Trump Make FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino Next UN Secretary-General? Buzz After World Cup Bond Published By, Last Updated: July 22, 2026, 07:04 IST The UN is set to elect a new Secretary-General later this year to succeed António Guterres, whose term ends in December. FIFA President Gianni Infantino with US President Donald Trump (Reuters) US President Donald Trump is reportedly backing FIFA President Gianni Infantino as a potential candidate for the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, according to a report by the New York Post, sparking speculation about an unconventional contender for one of the world’s most influential diplomatic posts. The report claims Trump believes Gianni Infantino, 56, possesses a unique ability to unite people across nations and cultures, a quality he sees as valuable for leading the UN. The Swiss-born football administrator and Trump have developed a close relationship in recent years, particularly during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the US played a key role as a host nation.

According to sources cited by the publication, Trump views Gianni Infantino as someone “respected by everyone around the world" and capable of bringing people together at a time of growing global divisions. The UN is set to elect a new Secretary-General later this year to succeed António Guterres, whose term ends in December. Any candidate would first need the backing of the 15-member UN Security Council, including avoiding a veto from any of its five permanent members, before being approved by the UN General Assembly. It remains unclear whether Gianni Infantino is interested in the role or whether Trump has directly discussed the possibility with him. Gianni Infantino is currently seeking re-election as FIFA president, with that process scheduled for next year. The reported push comes after a period of increasing public camaraderie between Trump and Gianni Infantino. The FIFA chief frequently appeared alongside the US President during World Cup events and had previously awarded Trump FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize.

Among the names frequently mentioned to be next in line for the UN post are former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet and International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi of Argentina. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit Key Questions Answered Could Gianni Infantino actually become UN Secretary-General? US President Donald Trump is reportedly backing FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the next UN Secretary-General post, sparking speculation. Trump believes Infantino can unite people across nations and cultures. What impact would Trump's backing have on the UN election? Donald Trump's reported backing of FIFA President Gianni Infantino for UN Secretary-General has sparked speculation about an unconventional candidate. Trump reportedly believes Infantino can unite people across nations. However, any candidate needs UN Security Council backing. Who are other potential candidates for the UN top job?