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 in 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 come together, ideally in a bipartisan effort, to send the bill to his desk, promising he would sign it immediately.

"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 Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and transfer portal regulations. While amendments to the bill have yet to be announced and could influence Republican support, Trump expressed hope the legislation would reach the Oval Office soon to safeguard 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.

Whether the Senate will approve the Protect College Sports Act remains uncertain, but Trump's remarks signal a strong push for swift congressional action.

Sources