President Donald Trump made a notable appearance at the 2026 College Football Playoff (CFP) National Championship game on January 19, 2026. The event featured a matchup between the Indiana Hoosiers and the Miami Hurricanes, held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida. Trump arrived via Marine One, departing from his Mar-a-Lago estate.
The President’s presence drew a mixed response from the crowd. Some fans expressed their disapproval, evident through boos during the National Anthem, while others greeted him with enthusiastic cheers. Accompanying Trump were his daughter Ivanka Trump, son-in-law Jared Kushner, and granddaughter Kai Trump.
Reasons Behind Trump’s Attendance
Trump’s attendance at the championship aligns with his routine surrounding Martin Luther King Jr. Day, yet there appears to be a deeper connection to the event. His granddaughter, Kai Trump, recently signed to play for the women’s golf team at the University of Miami during the early signing period. This familial link may explain his interest in attending the game, particularly as Kai made her LPGA debut in November 2025.
This is not Trump’s first foray into college football. He previously attended CFP games, including the 2018 matchup between Alabama and Georgia, as well as the 2020 clash between Clemson and LSU. Throughout his political career, Trump has participated in approximately 12 college football games as president, president-elect, or presidential nominee.
Recent Engagements and Public Reception
Trump’s visit to the championship comes shortly after he hosted the American Humane Society’s 15th Annual Hero Dog Awards Gala at Mar-a-Lago, an event that received significant media attention. The varying reactions from the public at both events reflect the polarized views surrounding the former president, highlighting his continued influence in American culture and sports.
As Trump navigates his post-presidency life, appearances at high-profile events such as the CFP Championship underscore his ongoing engagement with the public and the sports community.
