President Donald Trump is reportedly seeking to have the forthcoming stadium of the Washington Commanders in the nation's capital bear his name.
This revelation comes on the heels of an announcement from the White House that Trump will be attending the Commanders' game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, where he is set to honor military veterans during halftime.
According to Fox News, the White House has not confirmed these reports. However, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt remarked, "That would surely be a beautiful name, as it was President Trump who made the rebuilding of the new stadium possible." The planned domed stadium, to be constructed on the site of the old RFK Stadium, carries a hefty price tag of $3.7 billion.
ESPN has reported that there have been "back-channel communications" involving Josh Harris and other Commanders owners regarding the naming rights.
A White House official conveyed to ESPN, "It's what the president wants, and it will probably happen." Meanwhile, a source within the team indicated to ESPN that while no formal discussions have taken place, such conversations are anticipated. Ultimately, the decision on the stadium's name will likely rest with the District of Columbia Council and the National Park Service.
Earlier this year, Trump found himself at odds with the Commanders organization, threatening to derail their plans for a new stadium unless they reverted to their former "Redskins" name. On Truth Social, Trump expressed, "My statement on the Washington Redskins has totally blown up, but only in a very positive way."
He further stated, "I may put a restriction on them that if they dont change the name back to the original Washington Redskins, and get rid of the ridiculous moniker, Washington Commanders, I wont make a deal for them to build a Stadium in Washington. The Team would be much more valuable, and the Deal would be more exciting for everyone."
Trump also criticized the Commanders as the "Washington 'Whatever's,'" and suggested that the Cleveland Guardians should follow suit. He asserted, "Our great Indian people, in massive numbers, want this to happen. Their heritage and prestige is systematically being taken away from them. Times are different now than they were three or four years ago. We are a Country of passion and common sense. OWNERS, GET IT DONE!!!"
The deal for the RFK Stadium site was announced in the presence of Harris, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser, and NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell in the Oval Office. Sunday's game will mark Trump's first NFL appearance this season, following his attendance at Super Bowl LIX, where the Philadelphia Eagles triumphed over the Kansas City Chiefs in New Orleans.
In a statement, the Commanders expressed their enthusiasm for Trump's attendance, saying, "We are honored to welcome President Trump to the game as we celebrate those who have served and continue to serve our country.
The entire Commanders organization is proud to participate in the NFLs league-wide Salute to Service initiative, recognizing the dedication and sacrifice of our nations veterans, active-duty service members, and their families this Sunday."
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