Commanders vs Lions: Washington Commanders vs Detroit Lions: Donald Trump to become first sitting US president at regular-season NFL game since 1978?

Extra security measures were in place hours before the Washington Commanders’ game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday, when President Donald Trump plans to become the first president to attend a regular-season NFL contest in nearly half a century. Officers in black undercover uniforms who identified themselves as members of the U.S. Secret Service joined military, police and other guards inside and outside Northwest Stadium. There were more fences than usual blocking sidewalks and some roads were restricted. According to the league, a president has only been to an NFL game twice during the regular season while in office: Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978. Trump became the first president to go to the Super Bowl while at the White House in February when he watched the Philadelphia Eagles beat the Kansas City Chiefs 40-22.

Trump was expected to sit with Josh Harris, the leader of the group that bought Commanders from Daniel Snyder in 2023 for about $6 billion.

According to a report published Saturday by ESPN, a White House intermediary told the Commanders’ ownership group that Trump wants the club’s new stadium (part of a nearly $4 billion project in the nation’s capital at the site known as RFK Stadium) to bear his name.
“That would certainly be a nice name,” said press secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Sunday’s visit to Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, will be the latest in a series of high-profile appearances by Trump at sporting events including golf’s Ryder Cup, auto racing’s Daytona 500 and tennis’ U.S. Open.

“We are honored to welcome President Trump to the game as we celebrate those who have served and continue to serve our country,” said Commanders club president Mark Clouse. “The entire Commanders organization is proud to participate in the NFL’s leaguewide Salute to Service initiative in recognition of the dedication and sacrifice of our nation’s veterans, active-duty service members and their families this Sunday.” There was friction between Trump and the NFL during his first term as president when he objected to players kneeling during the national anthem to protest social or racial injustice. This movement started in 2016 with 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Through social media and other public comments, Trump insisted that players stand for the national anthem and called on team owners to fire anyone who kneels.

FAQ

Q1. Which US President attended an NFL regular season game?
A1. Richard Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978.

Q2. What sporting events has Donald Trump attended?
A2. Golf’s Ryder Cup, auto racing’s Daytona 500 and tennis’ US Open.