Trump will nominate Infantino as next UN Secretary-General

Background: The search for Guterres' successor

What's new since July 22, 2026

The news itself is new: For the first time, the "New York Post" is reporting on Trump's concrete plan to nominate Infantino. According to the report, the proposal came after a joint appearance by Trump and Infantino at the World Cup final in New Jersey, where both were booed by numerous spectators. Infantino himself has so far not responded to a request for comment from the newspaper. It also remains unclear whether the 56-year-old Swiss is even seeking the position, since he is already running for re-election as FIFA President in March 2027.

Trump apparently hopes for quick consensus

Background: The search for Guterres' successor

António Guterres' second term as UN Secretary-General ends on December 31, 2026. According to the report, there are currently six official candidacies for his succession. Traditionally, the nationality of the Secretary-General rotates among the world's regions; following this logic, Latin America would be next in line. Among the official applicants are former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet and Rafael Grossi, the Argentine Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Zampolli's comparison between FIFA and UN

Trump apparently hopes for quick consensus

According to an insider, Trump reportedly called the previous candidates "boring." According to a report, a source close to Trump told the "New York Post" that Trump believes Infantino "is respected by everyone in the world and has a special ability to bring people together." To be elected UN Secretary-General, a candidate would need the approval of the 15-member Security Council, in which the five permanent members hold veto power; confirmation by the General Assembly would then be required.

Salary and open questions

Zampolli's comparison between FIFA and UN

Paolo Zampolli, whom the report identifies as Trump's special envoy for global partnerships, drew a direct comparison between the two organizations: "Bei den Vereinten Nationen muss man mit 193 Mitgliedstaaten umgehen. Bei der FIFA sind es über 200 Mitglieder – und Giannis großartige Bilanz zeigt, dass er weiß, wie man das managt." Zampolli also said Infantino would "do a great job" and is "loved by everyone." The diplomat supported the proposal with the words: "Nur Präsident Trump konnte auf eine so geniale Idee kommen."

Salary and open questions

Should Infantino actually become Secretary-General, according to the report he would receive a base salary of approximately 418,000 US dollars – significantly less than the roughly six million US dollars he is said to currently receive as FIFA President. Trump's advisors point to Infantino's experience with a large member organization and to his public profile. Critics are likely to object that he lacks the diplomatic experience in conflicts and humanitarian crises expected for the role of UN chief. The world community is now waiting for an initial reaction from Infantino and the other member states.