SerpApi.Org
Donald Trump is endorsing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations Secretary-General following their prominent collaboration during the World Cup that thrust them into the public eye.
Trump is throwing his support behind Infantino for the position, with Antonio Guterres anticipated to conclude his tenure at the end of December 2026. Guterres has held the Secretary-General role for nine years, while Infantino has headed FIFA since 2016.
Trump reportedly views Infantino as a unifying figure with worldwide credibility after years of collaborating with soccer leagues, World Cup national associations, and major sponsors and considers him a perfect candidate, according to the New York Post. This follows a lip reader's disclosure of Infantino's request to Trump that he disregarded at the World Cup final.
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Trump's backing of Infantino intensified after the 2026 World Cup concluded, following the pair's appearances together during the tournament's closing stages. Infantino could still pursue a fourth term as FIFA President when his current term expires in 2027.
"The World Cup turned out to be a spectacular SUCCESS!" Trump posted on Truth Social after Spain beat Argentina in the final. He acknowledged law enforcement and others who contributed, and offered particular recognition to Andrew Giuliani and Infantino.
Trump was spotted with Infantino following England's semifinal defeat to Argentina and later during Spain's trophy and medal ceremony.
However, the US President cannot unilaterally appoint Infantino to 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 nation must initially nominate a candidate, who then undergoes public questioning and Security Council straw polls before any formal recommendation can be made.
The primary obstacle is securing at least 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 potentially leverage his influence should he pursue this path following the New York Post report. Their connection attracted additional scrutiny after Trump contacted Infantino prior to FIFA suspending US striker Folarin Balogun's red card before the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
The ruling prompted further allegations of corruption, although FIFA maintained Trump's involvement did not impact the decision. Reports indicated FIFA Disciplinary Committee chairman Mohammad al-Kamali allegedly reached the verdict without consulting the other 18 members.
The 2026 World Cup final shattered records by drawing 62.8 million TV viewers. The competition generated $15.2 billion in revenue, with both figures representing all-time highs.
