Former U.S. President Donald Trump is considering nominating FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations Secretary-General, as António Guterres prepares to step down at the end of 2026.
Years of Close Ties Between Trump and Infantino
The potential nomination comes on the heels of a long-standing relationship between the two leaders, which deepened during the preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The bond was highlighted when FIFA presented Trump with its inaugural “Peace Award” during the World Cup draw—a decision that sparked widespread debate. Both figures were frequently seen together throughout the tournament, culminating in their joint appearance at the final match.
New York Post Reports Trump’s UN Nomination Plan
According to a report by the New York Post, Trump wants to put Infantino forward for the UN’s top diplomatic job once Guterres’s term expires. A source close to Trump revealed that he views the FIFA chief as an internationally respected leader with a proven track record of bringing global parties together.
Official Status and UN Selection Mechanism
While neither the White House nor Infantino has officially confirmed the nomination, any bid would require member state submission followed by UN Security Council deliberation. To succeed, the candidate must avoid a veto from any permanent Security Council member before being formally appointed by the UN General Assembly.
