President Donald Trump has a new suggestion for the National Football League: change its name. The president urged Americans to start calling “soccer” by its global name, “football,” during an appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw event on Friday, Dec. 5.
The 79-year-old addressed the crowd at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., tackling questions about the sport and the upcoming tournament throughout the ceremony.
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While addressing the audience at the draw, Trump shared his thoughts on the terminology used for the world’s most popular sport. He advised Americans to adopt the term “football,” aligning with how the game is commonly known worldwide.
“When you look at what has happened to the sport, which we call soccer in the U.S., we never call it that because we have another conflict with a thing called football. But when you think about it, this is football, there is no question. We have to come up with another name for the other one. It really does not make sense when you think about it,” Trump said before receiving loud applause (via USA Today).
International fans have long argued the sport should be called “football” since players kick a round ball with their feet. Most global supporters distinguish the American gridiron game, which involves using hands, by referring to it specifically as “American football.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented Trump with the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize during the star-studded ceremony. In addition to the gold trophy bearing his name, Trump received a medal and a certificate.
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“This is truly one of the great honours of my life. Beyond awards, what matters most is that we saved millions and millions of lives. The Congo is an example. Over 10 million people were killed, and it was heading for another 10 million very quickly. The fact that we were able to step in and help stop that is something I’m very proud of,” Trump said (via India Today).
Trump, who previously campaigned for the Nobel Peace Prize, also highlighted other diplomatic efforts. “India-Pakistan as well and so many different conflicts we were able to end, in some cases even before they truly started. It was going to be late, but we got them done. And it is such an honour to be with Gianni. I’ve known Gianni for so long. He has done an incredible job,” he added.
These remarks and the recognition at the draw underscore Trump’s interest in leaving a mark on both the global soccer stage and international diplomacy.
