President Donald Trump has once again called on 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, 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 critical role of collegiate athletics in American Olympic success.

"The collegiate athletic system is the engine of American Olympic dominance," Trump said, noting that 88% of Team USA representatives at the Games came from college sports. 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.

Trump stated, "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 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 amendments to the bill are still pending and could influence Republican support, Trump expressed hope that the legislation would reach the Oval Office soon 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.

Whether the Senate will act on the Protect College Sports Act remains uncertain, but Trump’s remarks signal a strong push for its passage before Congress adjourns.

Sources