Former President Donald Trump is expected to attend Sunday’s NFL matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Detroit Lions in recognition of the league’s annual Salute to Service campaign.
The game kicks off at 1 p.m. ET in Washington, where the Commanders will host a ceremony honoring veterans, active-duty military members, and their families. According to Friday’s announcement, Trump will watch the game from the owners’ suite and take part in the celebration.
Despite ongoing disagreements between Trump and the Commanders organization over potential team relocation and the former president’s calls to restore the old “Redskins” name, the focus this weekend will remain on honoring the military community.
The news first surfaced during The Pat McAfee Show on ESPN, where host Pat McAfee told viewers:
“Sources are saying that President Donald Trump will be at the Commanders game on Sunday afternoon against the Lions. He’ll be in Josh Harris’ box for the Salute to Service celebration at halftime, ready to celebrate the best sport on the planet — football.”
The Commanders later confirmed Trump’s attendance in an official statement. Team president Mark Clouse said, “We are honored to welcome President Trump as we pay tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our country.”
Clouse added that the entire organization is proud to take part in the NFL’s Salute to Service initiative, which highlights the commitment and sacrifice of America’s military community.
However, the celebrations may be somewhat subdued this year due to the ongoing government shutdown, which began on October 1 and has now stretched into its 38th day—the longest in U.S. history.
Because Congress has failed to pass a funding bill, military personnel are barred from taking part in official public outreach activities, including NFL appearances.
According to a statement provided to The Washington Post by the Pentagon, service members can still attend Veterans Day events in a personal capacity — and may wear their uniforms — as long as no official endorsement or government involvement is implied.
The Post also reported that numerous military-supported activities such as demonstration teams, ceremonial units, band performances, port visits, and community outreach programs have been suspended until federal funding resumes.
Despite the limitations, the NFL says the Salute to Service campaign will continue throughout the season, rather than being confined to November.
Anna Isaacson, the league’s senior vice president of social responsibility, stated: “Although Salute to Service takes center stage each November — beginning this weekend — our commitment to supporting the military community remains active year-round.”




