In a headline that’s turning heads across both the political and sports worlds, former U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly finalized
a deal to purchase the iconic Florida State Seminoles football program. The move comes amid speculation that Trump, a longtime sports enthusiast and vocal supporter of college athletics, is looking to deepen his influence in American football — this time, at the collegiate level.
Sources close to the negotiation say the deal, valued in the hundreds of millions, includes full ownership rights of the football operations, training facilities, and branding partnerships associated with Florida State University’s storied football club.
Trump’s Bold Move Into College Sports
While Trump has previously flirted with sports ownership — most notably during the 1980s with the USFL’s New Jersey Generals — this is his most ambitious move yet. A spokesperson from his camp said, “President Trump sees the Florida State Seminoles not just as a team, but as a legacy brand with championship potential and national pride.”
Despite legal questions about the feasibility of such a purchase — considering college teams are typically university-run entities — Trump reportedly found a way through private investment partnerships and athletic department restructuring.
Mike Norvell Responds: “Football Is About Players, Not Politics”
Florida State’s head coach, Mike Norvell, was quick to respond to the headline-making news. In a press conference held just hours after reports of the purchase surfaced, Norvell made his position clear:
Look, my focus is and always has been on our players, our program, and building champions on and off the field. Whoever owns the name or the facilities, it doesn’t change our culture. Football is about players, not politics.”
Norvell, who has been credited with turning the Seminoles back into national contenders, expressed cautious optimism but remained firm about keeping the team grounded.
I’ve seen changes in leadership before. What matters is whether we keep our values, our work ethic, and our unity. That’s what wins games.”
Fans and Alumni React
The news sent shockwaves through the FSU community. Alumni and fans took to social media with mixed reactions. Some praised the bold move, believing Trump’s business acumen could help boost recruitment and funding. Others criticized the politicization of a beloved program.
“I didn’t think I’d ever see the day when a college team got bought like an NFL franchise,” one Twitter user posted. “This is surreal.”
What’s Next?
While no official details have been released from the NCAA or the university itself, all eyes are now on how this move will impact recruiting, funding, and the Seminoles’ place in college football. Trump is reportedly planning a public event at Doak Campbell Stadium to address fans and lay out his vision for the team’s future.
Whether this is a true shift in the structure of college sports or just another headline moment remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: the game just got a lot more interesting in Tallahassee.
