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5h ago

Trump Threatens to Block Commanders’ RFK Deal Unless Teams Revert to Redskins and Indians

He is leveraging the stalled $3.7 billion RFK Stadium project to press franchises to restore their former Native American–themed names.

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President Donald Trump speaks during a dinner for Republican senators in the State Dining Room of the White House, Friday, July 18, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
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Overview

  • On July 20, President Trump used Truth Social to demand the Washington Commanders return to the Redskins and the Cleveland Guardians revert to the Indians, claiming strong support from Native American communities.
  • He warned he would block a $3.7 billion redevelopment plan for RFK Stadium unless the Commanders reinstated their former Redskins moniker.
  • Commanders owner Josh Harris and Guardians president Chris Antonetti both stated they have no intention of reversing their 2020 rebrands.
  • The Washington franchise dropped “Redskins” in 2020, played as the Washington Football Team, then became the Commanders in 2022, while Cleveland phased out Chief Wahoo and adopted Guardians in 2021.
  • RFK Stadium land was transferred to D.C. in January, requiring City Council approval for redevelopment and giving Trump’s ultimatum potential sway over local officials.