The Hoosiers completed a perfect 16-0 campaign, defeating several top-ranked teams including Ohio State Buckeyes, Alabama Crimson Tide, and Oregon Ducks to secure the title in what is being called a historic turnaround for the programme.

Calling the achievement unprecedented in modern college football, Trump praised head coach Curt Cignetti for transforming Indiana into a national powerhouse in just two seasons.

“I think he’s the coach of the last decade,” Trump said during the ceremony attended by players, university officials, and lawmakers from Indiana.

He added that Indiana’s rise stood out in college football history. “He inherited something that was less than great, and he made it into something that probably has never been done at this level,” Trump said.

The President also recalled Cignetti’s confident remarks upon taking over the programme in 2023, when he said, “I win. I just know how to win.”

Coach Curt Cignetti Credits Leadership and Team Commitment

The coach credited strong leadership and institutional support for the turnaround. “You’ve got to have a commitment at the top,” Cignetti said. “Without a commitment at the top, nothing’s possible.”

He described the season as “the greatest record in college football history,” noting that the team defeated six top-10 opponents during their championship run.

Players Reflect on Historic White House Visit

Players also reflected on the achievement. Defensive back Jamari Sharpe said staying with the team was rewarding, while wide receiver Charlie Becker called the White House visit a lifelong honour.

Quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who was absent due to NFL training camp commitments with the Las Vegas Raiders, was also praised by Trump, who called him “a winner.”

Oval Office Tour and Medal Ceremony

At the conclusion of the ceremony, Trump invited the team to tour the Oval Office and presented commemorative medals, marking a celebratory end to the White House event honoring the champions.