Sport

Trump's Bold Ultimatum: No $3.7 Billion Commanders Stadium Without Name Change!

2025-07-21

Author: Jessica Wong

In a shocking turn of events, former President Donald Trump has thrown a wrench into the plans for a lavish new stadium for the Washington Commanders.

Trump has issued a stark warning: if the team refuses to revert to its controversial former name, the "Washington Redskins," he will obstruct their ambitious $3.7 billion stadium project.

In a post on his Truth Social account, Trump stated, "I may put a restriction on them that if they don’t change the name back to the original 'Washington Redskins,' I won’t make a deal for them to build a stadium in Washington." His comments have reignited debates around the implications of the team's current name, which many consider offensive to Native Americans.

The Commanders, currently playing at Landover, Maryland, are eyeing the site of the old RFK Stadium in D.C. for their new home. However, the specifics of how Trump could impede progress remain murky, especially after former President Biden transferred control of the land from the federal government to the District of Columbia earlier this year.

In addition to his remarks on the Commanders, Trump also called for the Cleveland Guardians to revert to their former name, the Indians, claiming there is a "big clamoring" for this change. Both teams transitioned to their new identities ahead of the 2022 season and remain steadfast in their choices.

Chris Antonetti, president of baseball operations for the Guardians, defended their decision, emphasizing that they are excited about building the brand of the Guardians over the last four years.

On the Commanders’ side, ownership has remained resolute. Team owner Josh Harris confirmed that under his leadership, there will be no name change.

Interestingly, Trump's remarks come two months after he, Harris, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, and D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser stood together at the Oval Office to announce the upcoming 2027 NFL Draft in Washington. Back then, Trump had expressed strong support for the Commanders' new stadium plans, praising the site as second to none.

As the clock ticks, fans and stakeholders are left to wonder: will Trump's ultimatum derail the Commanders' aspirations for a dazzling new home?