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 for their achievements at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Trump emphasized the importance of the bill.

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 recent Games. He urged both the House and Senate to pass the bill, stating he would sign it immediately at his desk.

“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 greater antitrust legal protections. It also seeks to establish a uniform framework for college athletics concerning Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation, the transfer portal, and other regulations.

While details about 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 protect college sports now and in the future.

At the event, Trump also praised efforts to safeguard women’s sports and reiterated the commitment to preserving cherished sporting traditions in the United States. The reception celebrated Team USA’s success 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 remains to be seen, but Trump’s remarks signal a strong push for its passage before Congress adjourns.

Sources