President Trump has expressed interest in nominating FIFA President Gianni Infantino for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, according to sources. Infantino, 56, has developed a relationship with Trump during the recent World Cup, where he was awarded FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize in December. Trump believes Infantino is respected globally and has the ability to unite people.
The next Secretary-General will be selected this year to succeed António Guterres, who is set to retire at the end of December. Infantino would need the endorsement of the 15-member Security Council and confirmation from the General Assembly to secure the position. It remains uncertain if Infantino is interested in the role and the extent of discussions between him and Trump.
Trump reportedly sees an opportunity among the current candidates, which he has described as lacking. Notable contenders include former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Rafael Grossi, the Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency. While geographic rotation typically influences the selection process, sources indicate that this may not prevent Infantino from receiving nominations.
Paolo Zampolli, a businessman and diplomat, stated that Infantino could bring fresh energy to the UN and leverage sports to foster connections globally. He noted similarities between the roles of FIFA president and UN Secretary-General, emphasizing Infantino's experience managing a large organization.
Trump has criticized the UN's effectiveness in resolving global conflicts and has previously reduced US contributions to the organization. If Infantino were to be appointed, it would mean a significant pay cut from his current salary of approximately $6 million at FIFA, as the Secretary-General's compensation is reported to be around $418,000.
Infantino is also seeking re-election as FIFA president, with the election scheduled for March. He has received endorsements from nearly all of FIFA's 211 member associations, although he faces criticism related to Trump's involvement in US team affairs during the World Cup.