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 event on Thursday, August 6th, 2026, honoring over 120 athletes, coaches, staff, and representatives from Team USA who competed in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Trump highlighted the critical role of collegiate athletics in American Olympic success.

Trump stated, "the collegiate athletic system is the engine of American Olympic dominance," 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, promising to sign it immediately upon receipt. "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 stronger antitrust legal protections and establish a uniform framework for college athletics, including rules on Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation and the transfer portal. NCAA officials have been lobbying for the bill's passage. While details on potential amendments remain uncertain and could influence Republican support, Trump expressed hope the bill would reach his desk soon to safeguard college sports traditions.

The White House 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 Protect College Sports Act remains uncertain, but Trump's remarks signal a strong push for swift congressional approval.

Sources