NEW DELHI: US President: Donald Trump FIFA president Gianni Infantino wants to be the next secretary-general of the United Nations, according to a report in the New York Post. The report said Trump admired Infantino’s role in organizing the FIFA World Cup and believes that the Swiss official has the ability to unite people around the world.
Trump backs Infantino for top UN role
According to the report, Trump believes Infantino would be a strong candidate to replace current UN secretary-general António Guterres, whose term ends in December.A source close to Trump told the New York Post. “He was respected by everyone around the world, and it was recognized that he had a special ability to bring people together.”However, it is not yet clear whether Infantino is interested in the position or whether Trump has discussed the proposal with him.To become the next UN secretary-general, a candidate must first receive the support of the 15-member UN Security Council, of which the five permanent members have veto power, before being approved by the UN General Assembly.
Trump and Infantino became close during the World Cup
The report said Infantino and Trump developed a close relationship while working together during this year’s FIFA World Cup.Infantino reportedly made special efforts to involve Trump during the tournament and first presented him with FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize in December.
The World Cup final drew boos for Trump and Infantino
Trump and Infantino were also in the spotlight during the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.Trump arrived at the stadium aboard Marine One and watched the game from a VIP suite with Infantino. According to The Guardian, he received scattered boos when he appeared on the stadium’s giant screens before kick-off.The reaction got louder after the game when Trump and Infantino took to the field for the trophy presentation after Spain’s 1-0 win.The atmosphere became more awkward when Trump remained at the podium after handing over the trophy, appearing to join the celebrations in Spain before leaving the stage.
Relationship under scrutiny
Trump’s close relationship with Infantino also came under scrutiny earlier in the tournament after USA forward Folarin Balogun’s one-match suspension for a red card was lifted ahead of the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.