President Donald Trump renewed his call for Congress to pass the Protect College Sports Act before the upcoming recess, emphasizing the urgency during a White House celebration on Thursday night, August 6th, 2026. The event honored more than 120 athletes, coaches, staff, and representatives from Team USA for their achievements at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Trump highlighted the importance of the collegiate athletic system, calling it "the engine of American Olympic dominance," noting it produced 88% of the Team USA representatives at the Games. He urged both the House and Senate to come together, ideally in a bipartisan manner, to pass the bill, which he pledged to sign immediately upon receipt.

"We have to get that done. If we don’t, we’re very foolish. Nobody knows what will happen. We’re in Never-Never Land. We’re not going to let that be happening. We’re not going to let that happen to these great people and others," Trump said.

The Protect College Sports Act is a bipartisan bill supported by NCAA officials that aims to provide the collegiate governing body with stronger antitrust legal protections. It also seeks to establish a uniform framework for college athletics regarding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation, the transfer portal, and other key issues.

While details about potential amendments remain unclear and could influence Republican support, Trump expressed hope that the bill would soon reach the Oval Office with the necessary framework to protect college sports now and in the future.

The president also praised efforts to protect women's sports and reiterated the administration's commitment to preserving cherished sporting traditions in the nation. The reception celebrated Team USA's medal haul of 57 total medals, including 25 gold, at this year's Winter Games.

Whether the Senate will approve the Protect College Sports Act remains uncertain, but Trump's remarks signal strong executive support for the legislation.

Sources