President Donald Trump attended the annual Army–Navy football game on December 13, continuing a long-standing presidential tradition tied to one of the most iconic rivalries in U.S. college sports.
The matchup between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen is regarded as a highlight of the college football season, symbolizing fierce competition followed by unity as players later serve together in the U.S. armed forces.
I guess Trump wasn’t golfing, but attending the Army-Navy game, which FJB couldn’t be bothered to attend.
Our military appreciates serving under a real President. pic.twitter.com/oAOqWyCHol
— 𝐌𝐢𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐞𝐥 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐞𝐱𝐚𝐧 (@michael_texan) December 13, 2025
A Tradition Dating Back to 1901
Presidential attendance at the Army–Navy game began with Theodore Roosevelt in 1901. Trump confirmed his participation during a Thanksgiving call with service members. When pressed on whether he preferred Army or Navy, he jokingly dismissed the question, saying: “That’s a terrible question. He’ll get me in so much trouble. I’ll be at the game,” according to USA Today.
Trump has now attended six Army–Navy games as President or President-elect: 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, 2024, and 2025. This year’s game is being played at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore.
Trump Refuses to Pick Sides
Ahead of the game, Trump again sidestepped the question of which team he supports. Posting on his platform Truth Social, he wrote: “Getting ready to land at Fort McHenry for my short drive to the Army-Navy Game.” Addressing questions about his allegiance, he added: “My answer is: ‘You must be joking if you think I’m going to give you that answer!’”
For decades, U.S. presidents have typically avoided choosing sides in the rivalry to maintain neutrality and respect the unique tradition shared by both military academies.
A Rivalry Rooted in Honor and Service
The Army–Navy game carries deep significance beyond sports. The winner gains bragging rights for the next year, but players from both teams ultimately serve together, defending the nation in shared commitment and purpose. It remains one of the most respected and patriotic events in the college football calendar.
In total, ten U.S. presidents have attended the game since 1901. While four of the last five presidents have appeared at least once, Joe Biden remains the exception—though he did perform the ceremonial coin toss in 2012 as Vice President.
How to Watch the Army–Navy Game
The Army–Navy matchup will air on CBS during Week 16 of the college football season.
Coverage details include:
- Broadcast team: Brad Nessler and Gary Danielson
- Sideline reporter: Jenny Dell
- Streaming option: Fubo (which offers CBS and includes a free trial for new subscribers)
The broadcast ensures nationwide access to one of the most tradition-rich games in American sports, attended this year once again by President Trump.
