Donald Trump’s second term will coincide with major sporting events in the United States, including a World Cup and Summer Olympics. His relationship with the sports world has been controversial, with some figures openly supporting him while others have spoken out against him. College football will see its first national champion White House visit in the expanded playoff era, with coaches and players expected to show respect to the president. In the WNBA, Trump’s previous refusal to invite championship teams may be challenged by rising star Caitlin Clark. The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Trump helped secure for the U.S., could see tensions with players over political differences.
In the world of college football, Trump’s second term will include a historic championship White House visit for the inaugural 12-team playoff. Coaches and players are likely to show respect for the president, as the sport has embraced him more than others in the past. However, in the WNBA, Trump’s previous snubs of championship teams may cause issues with the reigning New York Liberty. Rising star Caitlin Clark could lead her team to a title, creating a potential dilemma for players and the future of the league. Additionally, the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which Trump helped secure, may see tensions between players and the president over political differences.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, another major event happening during Trump’s second term, could be a potential point of contention between him and players. While Trump played a role in securing the event for the U.S., his controversial standing in the global community may lead to conflicts with soccer stars. For example, French superstar Kylian Mbappé, who has criticized right-wing politicians in the past, may pose a challenge for Trump during the tournament. Additionally, the NFL’s Chiefs and other teams could face awkward White House invitations due to players’ political affiliations.
As the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics approach, potential conflicts between Trump and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) may arise over gender eligibility in sports. Trump has expressed a desire to ban trans athletes in women’s sports, which could clash with the IOC’s policies. The NBA, as LeBron James and Steph Curry near the end of their careers, may also see tension with Trump over their political differences. Both players have been vocal critics of the president in the past, but whether they will have the opportunity to decline a White House visit remains uncertain.
