The Seattle Seahawks won Super Bowl LX on February 8, 2026, defeating the New England Patriots. Quarterback Sam Darnold led the team to the title in his first season with Seattle. Nearly two weeks later, rumors spread online that the team had declined an invitation to visit the White House.
Feb 11, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) reacts during Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl LX parade. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Feb 11, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) reacts during Seattle Seahawks Super Bowl LX parade. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
The speculation started with a post on X from a user named Ron Wright. It claimed the Seahawks turned down the traditional celebration with President Donald Trump. That post got millions of views and started a debate among fans.
Seattle Seahawks decline White House invitation! ππ»ππ»ππ»
β Ron wright (@ronsterd89) February 18, 2026
The White House has not issued any statement on the matter. The Seattle Times reported on February 18 that the administration did not respond to four inquiries about a possible invitation. An NFL source, speaking without authorization, said no invitation had been extended to the Seahawks as of that Wednesday.
No announcement has come from the Seahawks organization either. Neither players, coaches, nor officials have commented publicly on any invitation or decision. Fact-check reports from multiple outlets labeled the claim of a decline as false, citing a lack of evidence that an invite was even sent.
Seahawks focus on Seattle parade as fans await potential D.C. invitation
The tradition of championship teams visiting the White House began in 1980, when President Jimmy Carter hosted the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Pittsburgh Pirates. It became standard for Super Bowl winners over the decades. Attendance is always voluntary.
Recent years have seen complications. In 2018, the Philadelphia Eaglesβ visit fell apart after players opposed standing for the anthem. President Trump canceled the event and held a separate celebration instead. When the Eagles won again last season, they attended in April 2025, but not all players went.
The Seahawks are based far from Washington, D.C., with about 2,322 miles separating Seattle and the capital. If an invitation comes and the team accepts, it would require significant travel.
As of February 20, 2026, no official word has emerged from either side. The rumors continue to circulate, but verified reporting shows that no invitation has been issued yet. The situation remains unclear, with plans for such visits often finalized weeks or months after the game.
The Seahawks have stayed focused on their championship parade and offseason matters. Fans watch for any update from the White House or the team.