In a surprising move that has sparked immediate debate, former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly suggested renaming the sport of American football. The proposal came on Friday, December 5, 2025, shortly after he was honoured with the FIFA Peace Prize during the official draw for the 2026 soccer World Cup at the Kennedy Center in Washington.
A Prize and a Proposal
The day's events placed Trump at the centre of the international sports world. He was awarded the prestigious FIFA Peace Prize, a notable departure from the organization's traditional focus solely on sport, in a ceremony attended by global figures. Following the draw, where Trump, along with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and former Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney, selected balls for their respective nations, the former president turned his attention to a domestic sports issue.
Critiquing the very name of one of America's most popular pastimes, Trump was quoted as saying, "It doesn't make sense." His argument hinges on the global dominance of soccer, which is universally referred to as football outside North America. Trump's suggestion implies that the American version of the game should adopt a distinct name to avoid confusion and assert its unique identity on the world stage.
Context and Reaction
The proposal emerges from a highly visible international platform, linking a moment of diplomatic recognition in sports with a contentious cultural topic. The 2026 World Cup draw itself was a historic moment, solidifying the groups for the tournament to be jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Trump's involvement and subsequent comments have guaranteed that the event made headlines beyond the sports pages.
While the immediate reaction from sports bodies like the NFL or NCAA has not been detailed, the suggestion is likely to provoke strong opinions from fans, athletes, and cultural commentators. The name "football" is deeply entrenched in American sports history and identity, making any change a monumental undertaking. Trump's critique touches on the long-standing transatlantic divide over the term.
What Happens Next?
As of now, this remains a proposal from a prominent political figure, not an official policy initiative. There is no formal process or campaign announced to enact a name change. However, by raising the issue on such a significant stage, Trump has ignited a public conversation about sports nomenclature and national identity.
The story intertwines the worlds of politics, international sport, and cultural tradition. The FIFA Peace Prize award to Trump will be analyzed for its geopolitical symbolism, while his football renaming idea will be debated as a matter of cultural pride versus global practicality. For Canadian audiences, particularly with the nation's deep ties to both American football and soccer, and its role as a 2026 World Cup host, this news blends international intrigue with a familiar sports debate.
