Trump has recently selected several sports figures and political sponsors for this honor; Belichick did not accept it.
FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The President of the United States plans to deliver to the coach of the New England Patriots, Bill Belichick, the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Thursday, a White House official has confirmed to ABC News.
Minutes after the intention of the presidential office was announced, the head coach Bill Belichick announced that he will not receive the medal or travel to Washington. In a statement, the coach left his position on the matter:
“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, so I was flattered by what respect represents honor and admiration for previous recipients. Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred. and the decision has been made not to go ahead with the award. “
“Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for the values, freedom, and democracy of our nation. I know I also represent my family and the New England Patriots team. One of the most rewarding things about my career took place in 2020 when, through great leadership within our team, conversations about social justice, equality and human rights came to the fore and became actions. ”
“Continuing with these efforts while remaining loyal to the people, the team and the country I love, outweighs the benefits of any individual award.”
HC Bill Belichick of the Patriots will not travel to Washington or accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom, he announced today. pic.twitter.com/uvLLigFlHU
– Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 12, 2021
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established by John F. Kennedy in 1963, And is awarded by the President to individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the national security interests of the country, to world or cultural peace, or other significant public or private efforts.
Trump has recently selected several sports figures and political sponsors for this honor. Hall of Fame golfers Annika Sörenstam and Gary Player, along with the late Olympic player Babe Didrikson Zaharias, received the medal.
Belichick, 68, has just finished his 46th season in the NFL and 21st as head coach of the Patriots. He has led the franchise to six Super Bowl championships, joining George HLAS and Curly Lambeau as the only ones with six since the league’s postseason in 1933.
Belichick’s 311 wins (regular season and playoffs combined) are the third all-time mark behind Don Shuula (347) and Hales (324).
Belichick’s connection to Trump was in the news days before Trump was elected president in November 2016.
Belichick has served on the President’s Sports, Fitness and Nutrition Council since 2018.
Politician reported for the first time on Trump’s plans to hand over the medal to Bill Belichick.