President Donald Trump renewed his call for Congress to pass the Protect College Sports Act before the upcoming recess, emphasizing the urgency of the legislation. Speaking at a White House event on Thursday night, August 7th, 2026, honoring more than 120 athletes, coaches, staff, and representatives from Team USA who competed at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Trump highlighted the importance of college athletics to American Olympic success.

Trump stated 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, promising to sign it immediately once it reaches 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 enhanced antitrust legal protections and establish a uniform framework for college athletics, including Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and transfer portal regulations.

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

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

Sources