Trump backs FIFA chief Infantino for UN Secretary-General: report

Donald Trump, the current U.S. president, has reportedly expressed a desire for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations Secretary-General. The New York Post reported Tuesday that Trump believes Infantino possesses a special talent for bringing people together, a quality he sees as essential for the UN's top role.

Infantino, who is Swiss-born, has cultivated a close relationship with Trump, particularly through their collaboration on organizing the recent World Cup, which the United States co-hosted. This past December, Infantino awarded Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize. The two leaders were seen together at the World Cup Final in New Jersey on Sunday, where they jointly presented the trophy to the victorious Spanish team.

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he has a special ability to bring people together.

Paolo Zampolli, Trump's special envoy for global partnerships, supported the idea, drawing parallels between managing FIFA and the UN. "At the United Nations, you have to deal with 193 member states. In FIFA, there are over 200 members [and] Gianni’s great record shows he knows how to manage," Zampolli stated.

Trump has maintained an adversarial stance toward the UN since returning to office in January 2025, criticizing its perceived ineffectiveness in mediating global conflicts. This has led him to establish the Board of Peace, a body that has played a role in the Gaza Strip peace plan. The article notes that it remains uncertain whether Infantino, who has announced his intention to seek re-election as FIFA president, is interested in the UN position or has discussed it with Trump. The process for selecting a UN Secretary-General is complex, requiring endorsement from a majority of the UN Security Council and confirmation by the General Assembly.

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At the United Nations, you have to deal with 193 member states. In FIFA, there are over 200 members [and] Gianni’s great record shows he knows how to manage.