Jakarta, ThedailyID — U.S. President Donald Trump reportedly wants FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations after the pair strengthened their relationship during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
According to The New York Post, cited by Fox News, Trump believes Infantino has the leadership skills needed for the role. A source said the president views the Swiss football executive as someone “respected by everyone around the world.”
The White House has not commented on the report.
Trump and Infantino appeared together several times during the World Cup, which the United States, Canada, and Mexico co-hosted.
Earlier this year, Trump joined Infantino at several FIFA events. He also presented the FIFA Club World Cup trophy at MetLife Stadium. Days later, he handed the FIFA World Cup trophy to Spain captain Rodri after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final.
During the championship match, Trump sat alongside First Lady Melania Trump and Infantino. Officials displayed the World Cup trophy in Trump’s suite before the post-match ceremony.
Meanwhile, the United Nations plans to select its next Secretary-General later this year. The winner will begin a five-year term on January 1, 2027, replacing António Guterres, whose second term ends in December.
However, Infantino has not indicated whether he intends to enter the race. Candidates must first secure support from the 15-member UN Security Council. They also need approval from the UN General Assembly. The council’s five permanent members, including the United States, each hold veto power.
According to the report, Trump believes Infantino would outperform several other potential candidates. The list includes former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and International Atomic Energy Agency Director General Rafael Grossi.
Paolo Zampolli, Trump’s special envoy for global partnerships, praised Infantino’s leadership experience. He said FIFA’s 200-plus member associations show that Infantino can manage a large international organization. He added that this experience could prepare him to lead the United Nations and its 193 member states.
However, Infantino also faced criticism during the World Cup. Several football organizations questioned FIFA’s decision to overturn U.S. forward Folarin Balogun’s red card before the Round of 16 match against Belgium.
Trump later confirmed that he called Infantino personally and asked him to review the controversial decision.
Looking ahead, Infantino is expected to seek a fourth term as FIFA president. FIFA members will decide his future at the organization’s congress in March 2027.
