President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance at the upcoming Army-Navy football game, set to take place on December 13, 2024, at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore, Maryland. This annual matchup is steeped in tradition and represents one of the most storied rivalries in American sports. Trump made the announcement during a call with service members on Thanksgiving evening, emphasizing the significance of the event and expressing his excitement about being part of it.
During the call, Trump responded to a question from Army Sgt. Major Anderson, who inquired whom the president would bet on if he had to choose between the teams. Trump indicated that he has been following both teams closely and remarked, “One of those teams is having a spectacular year… They’re both doing well, but I’ll be at the game, and I’m going to let you know right after the game who’s going to win.” This playful banter highlights the competitive spirit that characterizes the Army-Navy rivalry.
The rivalry between the Black Knights of Army and the Midshipmen of Navy dates back to 1890 and has seen numerous thrilling contests over the years. Although Army has won six of the last ten matchups, Navy leads the all-time series with 62 victories compared to Army’s 55. Navy also enjoyed a notable winning streak from 2002 to 2015, reflecting the intense competition between the two military academies. There have been seven ties in their historic encounters, further underscoring the balanced nature of this rivalry.
Trump has a longstanding tradition of attending this game, having been present as either president or president-elect on five occasions, including in 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020, and now 2024. Last year, he attended the game with then-Vice President-elect JD Vance at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, where they also met with notable figures such as Daniel Penny.
In addition to the Army-Navy game, Trump has actively participated in various sporting events during his second term. His recent appearances include the Super Bowl LIX between the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles, the Daytona 500, and the Ryder Cup. His engagement with these events showcases his ongoing connection to American sports culture, which resonates with many of his supporters.
As the anticipation builds for the Army-Navy game, Trump’s involvement adds a unique dimension to an event that already draws significant attention from fans, alumni, and military personnel alike. His presence is expected to enhance the atmosphere of this historic contest, continuing a tradition that celebrates both athletic competition and the values of the United States military.