22/07/2026 04:26 - Actualidad
United States President Donald Trump might be considering the head of FIFA (the international governing body of association football), Gianni Infantino, aged 56, as a potential successor to Portugal's António Guterres at the helm of the United Nations (UN). According to the New York Post, citing sources close to the president, Trump believes the Italian-Swiss executive is universally respected and has a special ability to bring people together.
The bond between the two strengthened significantly during the organization of the 2026 World Cup, where they shared numerous events. In fact, Trump received the first FIFA Peace Prize in December, and both were present together during the tournament's final in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
For Infantino to take office, which Guterres will vacate at the end of December 2026, a complex process is required. First, he must secure the backing of the UN Security Council, where the five permanent members (United States, China, Russia, France, and the United Kingdom) hold veto power. Then, the candidacy must be approved by the UN General Assembly, comprising 193 countries.
US Special Envoy for Global Partnerships, Paolo Zampolli, supported the idea, noting that Infantino would do a great job because he knows how to manage FIFA's 211 member associations, a skill highly transferable to the UN's 193 Member States.
Infantino's eventual nomination would alter the international landscape, as it was previously expected that the next UN leader would come from Latin America or the Caribbean. Current heavyweight aspirants include:
If he accepts, Infantino would face a significant pay cut: as FIFA President, he earns roughly $6 million annually, whereas the UN Secretary-General's salary is around $418,000.
Furthermore, the Swiss executive already announced he will seek re-election at FIFA during the 77th Congress to be held in Morocco on March 18, 2027, according to AS and Infobae.
The 2026 World Cup left behind not only a champion (Spain) but also seems to have woven alliances that transcend the pitch and cross into the highest realms of global politics and diplomacy.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
