Washington Commanders: Trump Pushes for 'Redskins' Name, Threatens Stadium Restrictions

On 20 July 2025, former US President Donald Trump called for the Washington Commanders to revert to their original name, the Redskins, while also threatening to block the team's planned stadium redevelopment in Washington, D.C. The remarks, made via his social media platform Truth Social, come amid ongoing debates around team branding, federal influence over D.C. land use and Indigenous identity in sport.

Washington Commanders Original Name Under Renewed Scrutiny

The Washington Commanders were formerly known as the Redskins from 1933 until 2020, when the name was retired following widespread criticism from Indigenous groups and racial justice advocates. The franchise used the interim name 'Washington Football Team' for two seasons before adopting 'Commanders' in 2022.

Trump criticised the change, writing on Truth Social: 'The Washington "Whatever's" should IMMEDIATELY change their name back to the Washington Redskins Football Team. There is a big clamoring for this'. He also urged the Cleveland Guardians to revert to their former name, the Indians. 'Likewise, the Cleveland Indians, one of the six original baseball teams, with a storied past', he added.

Critics say these remarks undermine years of progress in racial sensitivity and respect for Native American communities.

Meanwhile, polling from The Washington Post in May revealed that 50 percent of D.C. residents and 62 percent of Commanders fans viewed the current name positively.

Trump's Influence Linked to RFK Stadium Plans

Trump's remarks included a direct threat to halt progress on the new $3.7 billion stadium proposed at the former RFK Stadium site. Though the federal government owns the land, the District of Columbia has negotiated a deal to redevelop it, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026 and the facility expected to open by 2030.

Trump suggested he would leverage federal authority to block the land deal if the team does not restore its former name.

Reactions from Indigenous Groups and the Public

Responses to Trump's proposal have been mixed. The National Congress of American Indians, one of the country's largest Indigenous advocacy organisations, remains firmly opposed to the 'Redskins' name, calling it a racial slur with a painful legacy.

Meanwhile, smaller organisations like the Native American Guardians Association have expressed support for bringing back the name, claiming it honours rather than insults Native identity.

Fan responses are similarly split, with younger demographics showing greater support for the 'Commanders' name, while older fans appear more nostalgic for the team's former identity.

Cultural and Political Implications

This issue highlights broader cultural tensions between tradition and inclusion. Since 2020, several major sports teams, including the Cleveland Guardians, have adopted new names to reflect evolving social norms. Trump's comments tie directly into his broader political messaging focused on cultural heritage and national identity.

The Commanders have not indicated any intention to reconsider their name. For now, the stadium deal remains on course, and the team continues to operate under its current branding, despite rising political pressure.

Who Owns the Washington Commanders?

The Washington Commanders are owned by businessman Josh Harris, who purchased the team from Daniel Snyder in July 2023. The $6.05 billion (£4.5 billion) deal was the largest in NFL history. Harris is also known for his ownership roles in the Philadelphia 76ers, the New Jersey Devils, and Crystal Palace F.C.

Since taking over, Harris has stated there are no plans to change the Commanders name. The team's communications staff did not immediately respond to Trump's latest comments but reiterated earlier this year that the organisation is focused on building long-term identity and success under the current branding.