Donald Trump has reportedly given FIFA President Gianni Infantino his backing to become the next United Nations Secretary-General after growing close during their collaboration on delivering the 2026 World Cup. The pair have been thrust into the global spotlight, and the president of the United States is now championing Infantino for the role.
Infantino's Credentials and Trump's Support
Current Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, is set to stand down at the end of December 2026, having held the position for nine years, while Infantino has been at the helm of FIFA since 2016. Trump reportedly views Infantino as a unifying figure with worldwide credibility following years of engagement with football leagues, World Cup national associations, and major sponsors.
Trump reportedly believes Infantino would be perfectly suited to the role, according to the New York Post. This comes after a lip reader disclosed Infantino's appeal to Trump that he brushed aside at the World Cup final, and a body language expert identified the motive behind his 'purposeful' stunt.
World Cup Success and Continued Partnership
Trump's backing for Infantino intensified after the 2026 World Cup concluded, following numerous appearances together during the tournament's closing stages. Infantino could yet pursue a fourth term as FIFA President when his present mandate expires in 2027.
"The World Cup turned out to be a spectacular SUCCESS!" Trump posted on Truth Social after Spain defeated Argentina in the final. He expressed gratitude to law enforcement and others who contributed, and offered particular commendation to Andrew Giuliani and Infantino.
"Few people will ever be able to accomplish what he has done in elevating the World Cup to a level that nobody thought was possible."
Trump was spotted alongside Infantino following England's semi-final defeat to Argentina and once more during Spain's trophy and medal ceremony.
Obstacles to the Appointment
However, the US President cannot simply hand Infantino the Secretary-General role. According to Article 97 of the UN Charter, the Secretary-General is chosen by the General Assembly following a recommendation from the Security Council.
A member state must first put forward a candidate, who then faces public scrutiny and Security Council straw polls before any formal recommendation can be made. The primary obstacle is securing a minimum of nine Security Council votes while avoiding a veto from any of the five permanent members: the United States, United Kingdom, France, Russia, or China.
Trump can lobby and attempt to wield his influence should he pursue this avenue following the New York Post report.
Controversy and Record-Breaking Tournament
Their association came under greater scrutiny after Trump telephoned Infantino before FIFA suspended US striker Folarin Balogun's red card prior to the Round of 16 clash with Belgium. The ruling prompted fresh allegations of corruption, although FIFA insisted Trump's involvement had no bearing on the decision. Reports suggested FIFA Disciplinary Committee chairman Mohammad al-Kamali reportedly took the decision independently without consulting the other 18 members.
The 2026 World Cup final shattered records with 62.8 million TV viewers. The tournament generated $15.2 billion (£11.4 billion) in revenue, both representing all-time peaks.
