Trump reportedly backs FIFA chief Infantino for UN top job

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly backing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to succeed António Guterres as the next United Nations Secretary-General, according to the New York Post citing sources close to the former president.

Sources cited by the newspaper suggest that Trump believes Infantino, 56, is an internationally respected figure with the ability to bridge divides. This assessment is said to stem partly from the relationship they developed during the organization of the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada.

The selection process for the next UN Secretary-General involves a recommendation from the Security Council, where the U.S. holds veto power, followed by confirmation from the General Assembly. The current Secretary-General, António Guterres, concludes his term at the end of December.

This reported endorsement comes as a notable shift, given Trump's history of strained relations with the United Nations and his skepticism towards multilateral bodies during his time in the White House. His administration withdrew the U.S. from the Paris Agreement on climate change, announced plans to leave the World Health Organization, and left the UN Human Rights Council.