Donald Trump, Infantino and the UN: Separating Fact From Fiction

Reports claiming US President Donald Trump wants FIFA President Gianni Infantino to become the next United Nations Secretary-General have generated widespread discussion following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. But is there any indication that Infantino is actually in the running for the UN's top job?

Here's what we know.

Why is Gianni Infantino being linked to the UN?

The speculation stems from reports suggesting Trump praised Infantino's ability to unite people through football and expressed support for him as a potential successor to current UN Secretary-General António Guterres.

The pair have developed a close working relationship in recent years, particularly during the United States' role as one of the hosts of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Infantino also presented Trump with FIFA's inaugural Peace Prize in December 2025, further highlighting their close ties.

However, there has been no official confirmation that Infantino intends to seek the role, nor has FIFA announced any plans for him to enter the race.

Can Gianni Infantino become UN Secretary-General?

Yes, he is eligible in principle, but becoming UN Secretary-General is an extremely complex diplomatic process.

Unlike political elections, there is no public vote. Candidates must first navigate the United Nations' internal appointment system.

The selection process has two key stages:

1. UN Security Council recommendation

Candidates are considered by the 15-member UN Security Council.
Crucially, any of the five permanent members- the United States, United Kingdom, France, China or Russia-can block a candidate by exercising their veto.

2. UN General Assembly approval

If the Security Council recommends a candidate, the nomination is then submitted to the 193-member UN General Assembly.
The General Assembly formally appoints the Secretary-General based on the Security Council's recommendation.

Without Security Council approval, no candidate can advance to the final stage.

Has Gianni Infantino announced his candidacy?

No.

As of now:

• Infantino has not declared his intention to run.
• FIFA has not confirmed any discussions regarding a possible candidacy.
• There is no indication that the UN selection process currently includes him as an official candidate.

At this stage, the reports remain speculation rather than confirmation of a formal campaign.

Who are the leading contenders?

Several experienced international figures have been mentioned as possible successors to António Guterres, whose second term ends in December 2026.

Among the names frequently discussed are:

• Michelle Bachelet - Former President of Chile and former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
• Rafael Grossi - Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

As with every Secretary-General selection, geopolitical considerations and the positions of the five permanent Security Council members are expected to play a decisive role.

Verdict: Is Trump trying to make Infantino UN Secretary-General?

Partly true, but unconfirmed.

Reports indicate Trump has spoken positively about Gianni Infantino and reportedly suggested he would make a good UN Secretary-General. However:

• There is no official nomination.
• Infantino has not announced any intention to run.
• The UN selection process has not endorsed or shortlisted him.
• Any future bid would still require Security Council approval before reaching the UN General Assembly.

For now, Infantino remains FIFA President, and while his name has entered public discussion surrounding the succession to António Guterres, there is no evidence that he is an official candidate for the role.