NEW DELHI: The President of the United States Donald Trump wants FIFA president Gianni Infantino to become the next secretary-general of the United Nations, according to a New York Post report. The report said Trump was impressed by Infantino’s role in organizing the FIFA World Cup and I believe 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 is respected by everyone in the world, and they recognize that he has a special ability to bring people together.”However, it is still unclear 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, where 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 made special efforts to include Trump during the tournament and previously presented him with the inaugural FIFA 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 became stronger after the match when Trump and Infantino walked onto the pitch for the presentation of the trophy after Spain’s 1-0 victory.The atmosphere became more awkward when Trump remained on the podium after the trophy delivery, appearing to join Spain’s celebrations before eventually leaving the stage.
Relationship under scrutiny
Trump’s close relationship with Infantino also came under scrutiny ahead of 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.