President Donald Trump renewed his call for Congress to pass the Protect College Sports Act as the legislative recess approaches. Speaking at a White House reception on Thursday night, August 6th, 2026, honoring more than 120 athletes, coaches, staff, and representatives from Team USA who competed in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Trump stressed the critical role of collegiate sports in American Olympic success.

Trump highlighted that "the collegiate athletic system is 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 pass the bill, which he pledged to sign immediately upon receipt.

"I’m urging the House and the Senate to come together, bipartisan if possible and it looks like they have done, to send the bill to my desk and I will sign it. I think we have no choice," Trump said. He added, "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."

The Protect College Sports Act is a bipartisan bill supported by NCAA officials that aims to provide the collegiate governing body with enhanced 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 of potential amendments remain uncertain and could influence Republican support, Trump expressed hope that the bill would reach the Oval Office soon with the necessary framework to safeguard college sports now and in the future.

The reception also celebrated Team USA's medal achievements at the Winter Games, where American athletes earned a total of 57 medals, including 25 gold.

Whether the Senate will act on the Protect College Sports Act before recess remains unclear, but Trump's remarks signal strong executive support for prompt passage.

Sources