Trump Pays Tribute to Legendary Coach Lou Holtz After His Death

The former president praised Holtz's undefeated 1988 season and Presidential Medal of Freedom award.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

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President Donald Trump paid tribute to legendary Notre Dame football coach Lou Holtz, who passed away at the age of 89. Trump praised Holtz's historic undefeated 1988 season, his fundraising efforts for Notre Dame, and his support for Trump. The former president awarded Holtz the Presidential Medal of Freedom near the end of his first term.

Why it matters

Holtz was a renowned college football coach who led Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1988. He was also a vocal supporter of Trump, speaking at the 2020 Republican National Convention and receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from the former president.

The details

In a Truth Social post, Trump called Holtz an "absolute WINNER both on and off the field," highlighting his undefeated 1988 season and his fundraising efforts for Notre Dame. Trump also praised Holtz as a "true American Patriot" who supported him "through thick and thin" and spoke out against "Democrat Insanity." Holtz was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Trump near the end of his first term.

  • Lou Holtz passed away on Wednesday, March 6, 2026.
  • Trump awarded Holtz the Presidential Medal of Freedom near the end of his first term, shortly after the 2020 election.

The players

Donald Trump

The 45th President of the United States who awarded Lou Holtz the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

Lou Holtz

A legendary college football coach who led Notre Dame to an undefeated season in 1988 and was a vocal supporter of Donald Trump.

Notre Dame

The university where Lou Holtz coached football and where he raised millions of dollars for student-athletes.

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What they’re saying

“The wonderful Lou Holtz passed away yesterday, so sad. Lou was an absolute WINNER both on and off the field. Not only did he spearhead Notre Dame's HISTORIC undefeated season in 1988 (including the legendary 31-30 'Catholics v. Convicts' Victory against Miami), he raised Millions upon Millions for struggling student-athletes, and the AMAZING University of Notre Dame (Go Irish!)”

— Donald Trump (Truth Social)

“It's the highest honor or award you could possibly receive, and I receive it with mixed emotions. First of all, I'm humbled. There are many more people far worthy than me, I can assure you.”

— Lou Holtz (Fox & Friends)

The takeaway

Lou Holtz's legacy as a legendary college football coach and his close relationship with former President Donald Trump will be remembered, as the two shared a mutual admiration and support for each other's endeavors.