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, August 6th, 2026, honoring over 120 athletes, coaches, and staff from Team USA who competed in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Trump emphasized the importance of the collegiate athletic system in American Olympic success.

Trump highlighted that 88% of Team USA representatives at the Games came from collegiate athletics, describing the system as "the engine of American Olympic dominance." He urged both the House and Senate to come together, ideally in a bipartisan manner, to pass the bill and send it to his desk for immediate signing.

"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 regulations on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and the transfer portal. While amendments that could influence Republican support are still pending, Trump expressed hope that the bill would reach the Oval Office soon to safeguard college sports traditions.

The reception 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 act on the bill remains uncertain, but Trump’s remarks signal a strong push for its passage before Congress adjourns.

Sources