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 night, August 6th, 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, "the collegiate athletic system is the engine of American Olympic dominance," noting that it produced 88% of the Team USA representatives at the recent Games. He urged both the House and Senate to come together, preferably in a bipartisan manner, to pass the bill, promising to sign it immediately once it reaches his desk.

"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 aims to provide the NCAA with greater antitrust legal protections and establish a uniform framework for college athletics, including rules on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and the transfer portal. While an amendment that could influence Republican support is still pending, Trump expressed hope that the bill itself will soon reach the Oval Office.

During the event held in the East Room of the White House, Trump also celebrated Team USA's achievements at the Winter Games, where American athletes earned 57 medals, including 25 gold.

Whether the Senate will act on the bill remains uncertain, but Trump's remarks signal a push for swift congressional action.

Sources