Visits to the White House by championship-winning sports teams have long been a celebrated tradition in the United States. These events serve as a symbol of achievement and recognition at the highest level, acknowledging the dedication and success of athletes and teams.
However, the nature of these visits has evolved over time, reflecting broader societal attitudes and individual team dynamics. In this listicle, we explore various championship teams that have visited President Donald Trump’s White House.
12. 2017-18 Washington Capitals (NHL)
The Capitals visited the White House in March 2019, though some players declined. Star goalie Braden Holtby skipped the trip, citing his values. The team met with Trump in the Oval Office, where he praised their Stanley Cup victory and predicted future success.
11. 2018 Boston Red Sox (MLB)
The Red Sox visited the White House in May 2019 to celebrate their 2018 World Series victory. Several key players, including manager Alex Cora, skipped the event due to political disagreements. J.D. Martinez presented President Trump with a personalized jersey during the ceremony on the South Lawn.
10. 2024-25 Florida Panthers (NHL)
The Florida Panthers, fresh off their first Stanley Cup victory in franchise history, visited the White House in early 2025. The team’s star players, including Matthew Tkachuk and Aleksander Barkov, were present for the ceremony. The Panthers’ visit marked a return to the tradition of championship teams meeting the President after a brief hiatus during previous administrations.
9. 2018 NASCAR Champion Joey Logano
President Trump welcomed Joey Logano, the 2018 NASCAR Cup Series champion, to the White House on April 30, 2019. Logano and team owner Roger Penske were honored on the South Lawn, where Trump praised their achievements and NASCAR’s popularity. Logano presented Trump with a racing helmet and a small trophy during the ceremony.
8. 2018-19 Baylor Bears (Women’s Basketball)
The Baylor Lady Bears, led by coach Kim Mulkey, clinched their third NCAA championship with a thrilling 82-81 victory over Notre Dame in 2019. The team visited the White House on April 29, 2019, where President Trump praised their resilience and skill, particularly highlighting Chloe Jackson’s game-winning layup.
7. 2018 Clemson Tigers (College Football)
The Clemson Tigers visited the White House in January 2019 after their 44-16 victory over Alabama in the national championship. Due to the government shutdown, President Trump served the team a fast food feast, including burgers and pizza. The unconventional meal garnered significant media attention and became a memorable moment of Trump’s presidency.
6. 2017 NASCAR Champion Martin Truex Jr.
Martin Truex Jr. and his Furniture Row Racing team visited the White House in May 2018 after winning the 2017 NASCAR Cup Series championship. President Trump praised Truex’s dominant season, which included eight wins and 19 top-five finishes. Truex’s longtime partner Sherry Pollex, a cancer survivor, also attended the ceremony.
5. 2017 Alabama Crimson Tide (College Football)
The Alabama Crimson Tide visited the White House on April 10, 2018, to celebrate their 2017 NCAA Football National Championship. President Trump welcomed the team, praising their “grit, drive, dedication, and incredible teamwork.” Coach Nick Saban presented Trump with a personalized No. 17 Alabama jersey, commemorating their 17th national title.
4. 2017 Houston Astros (MLB)
The Houston Astros visited the White House on March 12, 2018, after winning their first World Series. President Trump praised the team’s resilience following Hurricane Harvey and their on-field success. Manager A.J. Hinch presented Trump with a custom jersey, while some players, including Carlos Correa, chose not to attend.
Read More: Musicians Who Objected to Candidates Using Their Songs – And Some Who Didn’t
3. 2016-17 Pittsburgh Penguins (NHL)
The Pittsburgh Penguins visited the White House on October 10, 2017, to celebrate their 2016-17 Stanley Cup victory. President Trump praised the team’s dedication and highlighted their charitable efforts. Captain Sidney Crosby and other players attended, despite some controversy surrounding the visit.
Read More: The 20 Most Legendary NHL Players Of All Time
2. 2016 New England Patriots (NFL)
The New England Patriots visited the White House in April 2017 after winning Super Bowl LI. President Trump welcomed the team, praising their historic comeback victory. However, several players, including Tom Brady, skipped the ceremony, some citing political differences. The team presented Trump with a personalized jersey and helmet.
Read More: Eight Presidents Who Died in Office (And What Happened Next)
1. 2016 Clemson Tigers (College Football)
The Clemson Tigers, led by Coach Dabo Swinney, visited the White House in June 2017 after winning the 2016 NCAA National Championship. President Trump praised the team’s determination and grit, highlighting their comeback victory against Alabama. The visit included a speech by Trump and photo opportunities with the team and coaching staff.
Watch Now: Big plays. Fast takes. Check out TQR Shorts for the latest sports news with Zoe!