Trump Calls for Renaming Nation’s Favorite Sport in Bizarre Rant
Former President Donald Trump recently suggested a change in naming conventions for American football. He believes the U.S. should align with international standards by referring to soccer as football. Trump’s comments came during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final Draw held at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on December 5, 2025.
Trump Advocates for a Name Change
During the event, Trump, 79, expressed his thoughts in response to a question from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He stated, “When you think about it, shouldn’t it really be called… this is football, there’s no question about it.” His remarks elicited cheers from soccer fans and officials present.
A Momentous Event
Alongside Trump were notable figures such as Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. These leaders are collaborating to host the next World Cup across 16 cities in North America. Trump’s commentary regarding the sport encompassed both terms, sparking discussions among attendees.
Record-Breaking World Cup Numbers
Trump highlighted the immense popularity of the upcoming World Cup, noting record season ticket sales. He added, “Nobody’s ever sold as many tickets, and you’re still a long way from the ball being kicked down the field.” This event marks Trump’s second appearance on stage at the Kennedy Center, having previously received the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize for his contributions to the sport.
- Date of event: December 5, 2025
- Location: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Washington, D.C.
- Attendees: Donald Trump, Claudia Sheinbaum, Mark Carney, Gianni Infantino
- Record audience: 1.5 billion viewers at the 2022 FIFA World Cup final in Qatar
Comparative Popularity
Infantino made an intriguing comparison, stating the FIFA World Cup’s significance was akin to hosting “104 Super Bowls in one month.” This highlights the distinguished status of American football, which remains the most-watched sport in the U.S., closely followed by basketball and baseball.
In summary, Trump’s call for renaming American football not only reflects a personal opinion but also ignites a broader conversation about the sport’s identity in the context of global football culture.