Washington, Dec 13 – President Donald Trump took a hard line on the NCAA’s new name‑image‑likeness (NIL) rules, warning that colleges could be hit hard financially and hinting that the federal government might need to step in.
“I don’t like the NIL,” Trump told reporters at the White House on Friday. “I don’t like the portal… and we have no control over that.”
He called the current system a “disaster for college sports” and even for the Olympics. Trump argued that universities are forced into reckless spending fights, citing a case where a university might shell out $14 million for a high‑school quarterback who may never become a top player.
Trump said even the biggest schools are losing money, adding that colleges can’t afford to keep playing this game. He warned that the fallout isn’t limited to football and basketball; many programs that once fed athletes into the Olympics are being cut because money is being funneled only into football.
He added that the American sports ecosystem is at risk. “If you didn’t have a very strong salary cap… they’d all be out of business,” he said, drawing parallels to professional leagues.
The president also slammed the logic behind recruiting decisions, saying schools will keep offering huge bonuses to a single player even if it doesn’t pay off.
“I’m willing to put the federal government behind it,” Trump said, underscoring the urgency. “If it’s not done fast, you’re going to wipe out colleges.” He concluded that the system ultimately hurts the athletes, describing it as “horrible for the players.”
These remarks reflect a growing unease across the U.S. sports world about the rapid commercialization of college athletics and its long‑term viability. The NIL policy, rolled out in 2021, lets college players earn money from endorsements and sponsorships. While supporters say it corrects a historic pay gap, critics argue it has destabilized recruitment and budgeting at colleges.
Because Indian students make up one of the largest international groups in U.S. universities, changes to college sports funding and campus economics resonate with Indian families, institutions, and policymakers watching U.S. higher education trends overseas.
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
