Trump wants new NFL stadium named after him

November 20, 2025 Oliver Obel

A high-profile NFL matchup in Washington is drawing unusual attention this weekend — and not just because of the visiting Detroit Lions. A new report suggests the White House has taken interest in what the Commanders plan to call their future home, raising fresh questions about how political influence could intersect with a multibillion-dollar stadium project.

The matter first surfaced in reporting by ESPN, which said internal discussions began days ago as preparations intensified for President Donald Trump’s visit to Sunday’s game. Staff inside the organization have been coordinating the details of his appearance, according to people familiar with the planning.

A private nudge from the president

Several individuals with knowledge of the conversations told ESPN that Trump, now serving his second term after defeating Kamala Harris in 2024, has privately indicated he wants the team’s forthcoming $3.7 billion stadium to carry his name.

These exchanges have reportedly been informal, occurring among those close to the president rather than through any official channels.

Trump’s interest is not wholly surprising. He has long tried to position himself within the sports world — from promoting his golf properties to past attempts to buy professional football teams.

His second term has brought its own flurry of high-impact decisions, including deep federal workforce cuts, sharp actions toward political opponents, and new reciprocal tariffs aimed at major U.S. trading partners.

A new facility on old ground

The Commanders plan to relocate to a modern venue built on the site of RFK Stadium, the franchise’s home for more than three decades before moving to the Northwest Stadium in 1997. The new facility is expected to open in 2030.

When ESPN asked about Trump’s interest, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt replied, “That would be a beautiful name, as it was President Trump who made the rebuilding of the new stadium possible.”

She declined to provide additional details. Another senior official went further, telling the network, “It’s what the president wants, and it will probably happen.”

Who decides naming rights

Officially, the Commanders control the commercial naming rights — typically a lucrative agreement with a corporate sponsor. League-wide, it’s standard for teams to sell naming rights to brands rather than individuals, especially active political figures, though exceptions exist for commemorative designations.

But that decision isn’t the only one in play. ESPN noted that honoring an individual would require separate approval from the District of Columbia Council and the National Park Service, which oversees the federal land where construction is scheduled.

For now, team officials say no formal talks about the name have taken place. Still, with Trump set to attend Sunday’s game and participate in halftime activities recognizing military members, those familiar with the planning acknowledge the subject could surface informally during the visit.

Sources: ESPN