Trump Pushes FIFA Chief Gianni Infantino for UN Secretary-General Post
US President Donald Trump is reportedly eyeing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to succeed Ant贸nio Guterres as the next UN Secretary-General, aiming to reshape global diplomacy despite potential...
US President Donald Trump is reportedly eyeing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to succeed Ant贸nio Guterres as the next UN Secretary-General, aiming to reshape global diplomacy despite potential geographical rotation hurdles.
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Uncertain Interest and Recent FIFA Peace Award
The newspaper points out that it remains unclear whether the head of the global football federation is interested in taking over the position of UN Secretary-General. In early December 2025, Infantino honored the US president with the inaugural FIFA Peace Award, making Trump its very first recipient.
Trump wants Infantino in the position of UN Secretary-General.
UN Appointment Process and Geographical Rotation
The term of the current secretary-general, Portuguese national Ant贸nio Guterres, concludes in December. To secure the position, a candidate must obtain a recommendation from the 15-member UN Security Council鈥攚here five permanent members hold veto power鈥攁nd subsequently be approved by the General Assembly.
According to the “New York Post,” Trump sees an opportunity to push through Infantino’s candidacy despite the informal rule of geographical rotation, under which the UN chief post was slated to go to a representative from Latin America or the Caribbean this time. Among the frequently mentioned candidates are former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi of Argentina.
A “Genius” Idea to Mend UN Relations
Trump’s “genius” idea. Wanting to repair relations with the UN?
US Special Envoy for Global Partnerships Paolo Zampolli called Trump’s idea “genius.” He stated that Infantino would do a great job and is liked by everyone, arguing that experience leading an organization of over 200 football associations could prove useful in managing the UN, which brings together 193 member states.
According to the “New York Post,” the potential election of Gianni Infantino could improve the Trump administration’s strained relations with the UN. Since returning to the White House, the US president has curbed funding for the United Nations and withdrawn the country from several of its agencies, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNESCO, and the UN Human Rights Council.
Salary Discrepancy and Unconfirmed Discussions
The “New York Post” notes that it is unknown whether Trump has already spoken with Infantino about this proposal. The FIFA chief is currently seeking re-election for the FIFA presidency, where he earns approximately $6 million, with elections scheduled for March of next year. As UN chief, Infantino would earn roughly $418,000 annually.
From New York, Andrzej Dobrowolski (PAP)