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 reception on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, honoring more than 120 athletes, coaches, and staff 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, "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 come together, ideally in a bipartisan manner, to send the bill to his desk, promising, "I will sign it. I think we have no choice."

The Protect College Sports Act is a bipartisan bill supported by NCAA officials that aims to provide greater antitrust legal protections for collegiate sports. 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.

Trump added, "Already we’ve done a lot to save women’s sports, and we’re also saving college sports. We’re in the process of working very hard, doing everything we can to protect the cherished sporting traditions that have long been a part of our nation."

He warned, "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 bill's progress in the Senate remains uncertain, but Trump’s remarks signal strong support for its swift passage. The White House event also celebrated Team USA's medal achievements at the Winter Games, where American athletes earned 57 medals, including 25 gold.

Sources