Former US President Donald Trump is reportedly pushing to have his name adorn the Washington Commanders' future NFL stadium, according to a senior White House source.
The Presidential Request
ESPN revealed that Trump has directly expressed his wishes to the Commanders' ownership group, led by Josh Harris. A senior White House source confirmed the development, stating: "It's what the president wants, and it will probably happen."
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt enthusiastically endorsed the potential naming arrangement, telling ESPN via email: "That would be a beautiful name, as it was President Trump who made the rebuilding of the new stadium possible."
Stadium Specifications and Location
The proposed venue represents a major infrastructure project for the American capital. The $3.7 billion domed stadium will feature 65,000 seats and is planned for construction at the former site of RFK Stadium in Washington DC.
This location holds historical significance for the franchise, having served as home to the team (then known as the Washington Redskins) from 1961 through 1996. The new stadium is projected to open its doors in 2030.
Naming Convention Context
This potential move breaks from standard NFL practice. Aside from historic venues like Green Bay's Lambeau Field and Chicago's Soldier Field, most NFL stadiums sell their lucrative naming rights to corporate sponsors.
Some facilities employ hybrid naming approaches, such as Kansas City's GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium and Denver's Empower Field at Mile High. This suggests the Commanders could potentially satisfy both commercial and political interests with a compromise name like "Northwest Field at Trump Stadium."
The Washington Commanders currently play at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. A team spokesperson declined to comment on the naming rights speculation when approached by ESPN on Saturday.
Trump is expected to attend the Commanders' home game against the Detroit Lions on Sunday as a guest of owner Josh Harris, continuing their relationship that was previously documented during a state dinner at Lusail Palace in Doha, Qatar last May.
