After the huge success of World Cup 2026, the camaraderie between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump appears to have grown stronger. While the tournament is already over, the duo has once again hit the headlines. As per reports, Trump, while highlighting Infantino’s ability to bring people together, expressed his desire for him to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations. The US President believes the FIFA chief is respected by everyone around the globe. The report, shedding light on their close bond, comes after Infantino honoured Trump with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize last December.
How could Gianni Infantino become secretary-general of the United Nations?
To become the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, Gianni Infantino would first need the backing of the UN Security Council, a crucial hurdle given that any of its five permanent members can block a candidate through their veto power.
If the FIFA President secures enough support from the 15-member council, his nomination would then move to the UN General Assembly for formal approval. With Antonio Guterres set to leave office at the end of December, the selection process is expected to take place later this year.
While there has been speculation surrounding Infantino’s potential candidacy, it remains unclear whether the FIFA president is interested in pursuing the role or has held any serious discussions with Donald Trump regarding a bid for the UN’s top diplomatic position.
Other contenders to be UN Secretary-General
Several prominent names have emerged in discussions surrounding the next United Nations Secretary-General. Among them are former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet, a well-known centre-left leader whose candidacy could encounter opposition from the United States.
Another notable figure is Rafael Grossi of Argentina, currently heading the International Atomic Energy Agency. His bid, however, may face scrutiny from the United Kingdom due to the historic Falkland Islands dispute. Traditionally, attention has been focused on candidates from Latin America and the Caribbean, a region that has not held the position since Peru’s Javier Perez de Cuellar served from 1982 to 1991.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump has also revealed that he would request FIFA to bring the World Cup back to the USA soon, as Spain wrapped up the 2026 edition as the champions, beating Argentina in the New Jersey final.
ALSO READ: Lionel Messi Returns To Rosario After Argentina’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Defeat
