Trump Mourns Legendary Coach Lou Holtz's Passing

The former president praised Holtz as a 'true American patriot' and 'absolute WINNER' on and off the field.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Trump is mourning the death of legendary college football coach Lou Holtz, who passed away at the age of 89 in Orlando, Florida. Trump praised Holtz's coaching accomplishments, including leading Notre Dame to a national championship in 1988, as well as his work raising millions for student-athletes through his nonprofit Holtz Heroes.

Why it matters

Holtz was a highly respected and influential figure in college football, known for his success on the field as well as his philanthropic efforts. His passing is being mourned by many, including President Trump, with whom he had a close relationship.

The details

Holtz, a West Virginia native, spent five decades in college football and led the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1988. He was also known for his work raising 'Millions upon Millions for struggling student-athletes' through his nonprofit Holtz Heroes, founded in 2008. Trump had previously indicated that Holtz could receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor, toward the end of Trump's first term.

  • Holtz died on Wednesday, March 5, 2026, surrounded by family in Orlando, Florida.
  • Trump posted his tribute to Holtz on Truth Social on Thursday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Lou Holtz

A legendary college football coach who spent five decades in the sport, most notably leading the Notre Dame Fighting Irish to a national championship in 1988. He was also known for his philanthropic work raising millions for student-athletes.

Donald Trump

The former president of the United States, who had a close relationship with Holtz and praised him as a 'true American patriot' and 'absolute WINNER' on and off the field.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The wonderful Lou Holtz passed away yesterday, so sad. Lou was an absolute WINNER both on and off the field.”

— Donald Trump, Former President (Truth Social)

What’s next

Trump is expected to host a roundtable at the White House on Friday, March 7, 2026, to discuss college sports reform.

The takeaway

Holtz's passing marks the end of an era for college football, as he was a highly respected and influential figure known for his success on the field and his philanthropic efforts. His close relationship with former President Trump highlights the coach's impact beyond just the sport.