The tradition of Super Bowl champions visiting the White House has been a long-standing one, starting back in 1980 with President Jimmy Carter. Over the years, most championship teams have been welcomed to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue for a celebratory visit, except for a few exceptions like the revocation of the Philadelphia Eagles’ invitation in 2018 by President Donald Trump. The upcoming Super Bowl in 2025, set to take place in New Orleans on February 9, will see the Kansas City Chiefs and the Eagles competing for the Lombardi Trophy, with President Trump expected to attend the game in person for the first time in U.S. history.
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The tradition of inviting Super Bowl champions to the White House began with President Carter, who recognized the power of sports to bring people together. This tradition continued with subsequent presidents, with each hosting championship teams from various professional sports. The ceremonial visit typically involves the president making remarks, receiving a team jersey, and exchanging symbolic gifts, such as the “terrible towel” presented by the Pittsburgh Steelers to Carter in 1980.
In the event that the Kansas City Chiefs emerge as the victors of the 2025 Super Bowl, it remains unclear whether they will visit the White House to meet with President Trump. The Chiefs faced a similar situation in 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic prevented their visit, but they were able to visit during President Biden’s term following their consecutive Super Bowl wins in 2023 and 2024.
The Philadelphia Eagles, on the other hand, have a more complicated history with White House visits. Following their Super Bowl win in 2018, several players opted out of the visit due to their disagreements with President Trump. In response, Trump rescinded the team’s invitation, leading to a public dispute. Given this history, it remains uncertain whether the Eagles would attend the White House if they were to win the 2025 Super Bowl.
President Trump’s attendance at the 2025 Super Bowl has been confirmed, marking the first time a sitting president will watch the championship game live. While his presence adds a unique element to the event, players like Chiefs’ tight end Travis Kelce and Eagles’ quarterback Jalen Hurts have expressed their focus on the game itself rather than any added pressure from the presidential presence.
As the Super Bowl approaches, the question of whether the championship team will visit the White House continues to linger. The historical significance and traditions attached to this ceremonial visit provide a glimpse into the intersection of sports, politics, and national pride. Regardless of the outcome, the anticipation of this annual tradition serves as a reminder of the enduring connection between sports and the highest office in the United States.