Trump backs FIFA chief Gianni Infantino for high-profile move into politics
Donald Trump is reportedly backing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations secretary-general after their high-profile partnership during the 2026 World Cup
Donald Trump is reportedly backing FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations secretary-general after their high-profile partnership during the 2026 World Cup22:02 ET, 22 Jul 2026Updated 22:02 ET, 22 Jul 2026Donald Trump is reportedly supporting 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. Trumpis said to be endorsing Infantino for the position, with Antonio Guterres anticipated to step down 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 collaborating with soccer leagues,World Cupnational associations, and major sponsors and considers him a perfect candidate, according to theNew York Post. It comes afterTrump was humiliated by a World Cup star in an awkward moment that was broadcast around the world. Article continues belowTrump's backing of Infantino strengthened after the 2026 World Cup concluded, following their visible appearances together during the tournament's closing stages. Infantino could still pursue a fourth term as FIFA president when his current tenure 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 acknowledged law enforcement and others who contributed, and offered particular recognition 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," he continued. Trump appeared alongside Infantino after England's semifinal defeat to Argentina and again during Spain's trophy and medal presentation. However, the U. S. 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 Security Council recommendation. A member state must initially propose a candidate, who then undergoes public questioning and Security Council straw polls before any formal recommendation occurs. The primary obstacle involves 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 advocate and attempt to leverage his influence should he pursue this path, following the New York Post report. Their connection attracted further scrutiny after Trump contacted Infantino before FIFA suspended U. S. striker Folarin Balogun's red card prior to the Round of 16 clash against Belgium. Article continues belowThe ruling prompted additional accusations of corruption, although FIFA maintained Trump's involvement didn't impact the decision. Reports indicated FIFA Disciplinary Committee chairman Mohammad al-Kamali allegedly made the determination without consulting the other 18 members. The 2026 World Cup final shattered records, drawing 62. 8 million TV viewers, while the tournament generated $15. 2 billion in revenue, marking all-time highs on both fronts.