Trump wants Fifa chief Infantino as next UN secretary-general: Report
The US president reportedly believes the football administrator’s global popularity and ability to unite people make him a suitable candidate to replace António Guterres.
US President Donald Trump wants Fifa President Gianni Infantino to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations, according to a report by The Telegraph.
Citing sources, The Telegraph reported that Trump believes Infantino is "respected by everyone around the world" and has a "special ability to bring people together".
Trump is reportedly looking for a replacement for current UN Secretary-General António Guterres, whose term ends in December.
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Infantino, 56, developed a close relationship with Trump during preparations for the 2026 Fifa World Cup, which was co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Swiss football administrator has made several public appearances alongside Trump in recent years. In December, Fifa awarded Trump its first-ever Fifa Peace Prize after he failed to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
The relationship between the two dates back to the United States' successful bid to host the World Cup in 2018, when Trump hosted Infantino at the White House. Infantino later attended the signing ceremony of the Abraham Accords in Washington in 2020 at Trump's invitation.
Earlier this year, Infantino attended Trump's Board of Peace meeting, where he pledged Fifa support for a $7 billion relief package for Gaza, including plans for a stadium, Fifa academy and football facilities.
Infantino has faced criticism over his close association with Trump. Last December, human rights advocacy group Fair Square filed a complaint with Fifa's ethics committee, accusing him of breaching Fifa's political neutrality rules through his public support for Trump's policies and actions.
During the 2026 World Cup draw, Infantino presented Trump with a golden trophy bearing his name and a medal. Trump also remained on stage during Spain's trophy celebrations after handing over the World Cup trophy to the champions.
To become UN secretary-general, Infantino would require endorsement from the UN Security Council and approval by the General Assembly.
Sources told The Telegraph that he could receive multiple nominations with Trump's backing, though it remains unclear whether Infantino is interested in the role or whether Trump has formally discussed the possibility with him.
Other reported contenders for the UN's top post include former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet and International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi.
Trump has repeatedly criticised the UN, accusing the organisation of failing on issues including migration and governance. His administration has also cut US funding and mandatory contributions to the organisation.
Paolo Zampolli, Trump's special envoy for global partnerships and a personal friend of Infantino, backed the possibility of the nomination, saying Infantino would "do a great job" at the UN.
"At the UN, you have to deal with 193 member states. In Fifa, there are more than 200 members, and Gianni's great record shows he knows how to manage," Zampolli told The Telegraph.
