Donald Trump Eyes High-Ranking UN Role for FIFA Boss Gianni Infantino After Successful World Cup

Donald Trump reportedly envisions Gianni Infantino as the next Secretary-General of the United Nations, one of the world's highest political offices. This information comes from the New York Post, citing sources close to the matter. Infantino, 56, has led FIFA for years but has faced increasing scrutiny within the global football organization. Allegations include his purported intervention at Trump's behest to overturn a red card for American player Folarin Balogun, and the controversial awarding of the World Cup to Qatar (2022) and Saudi Arabia (2034), both shadowed by corruption suspicions.

Meanwhile, Infantino has actively sought to curry favor with Trump. He established a special peace prize, immediately presenting it to the former American president. He also arranged for Trump to present the World Cup trophy to Spain after their final match against Argentina last Sunday. All these efforts, according to the New York Post, are culminating in a bid for a high-ranking political position at the United Nations. Trump reportedly sees Infantino as the ideal candidate to succeed Portugal's António Guterres, who is set to retire at the end of this year.

Infantino would require the recommendation of fifteen Security Council members, and with Trump's endorsement, the 56-year-old Swiss could significantly advance his candidacy. While it remains unclear if Infantino desires the role, sources indicate Trump views him as 'respected by everyone around the world' and possessing a 'special gift for bringing people together.' A diplomat serving Trump reportedly called it a 'brilliant idea' and believes Infantino would do 'great work.'

Should Infantino transition from FIFA to global politics, he would need to accept a substantial pay cut. As the head of the world football governing body, he earns over five million euros, whereas the UN Secretary-General's compensation is approximately 400,000 euros.