Fernando Mendoza Facing Criticism For Skipping Indiana Celebration

The Indiana Hoosiers will be celebrating their College Football Playoff national championship at the White House later this month. Indiana's star quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, won't be there.

The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner, who was just picked No. 1 overall in the NFL Draft, says that he needs to be around his new teammates on the Las Vegas Raiders. It's too early for him to be giving up practice and study time in Las Vegas, he says.

"As a rookie, I don't think that's a good look. I gotta prove myself. I can't miss practice," he said.

While some praised Mendoza for prioritizing the 2026 NFL season over a championship celebration at the White House, others suggested that he'll end up regretting this. You only get to celebrate your team's College Football Playoff national championship once, after all.

Some fans wish that he would change his mind.

"Not cool. I'm very disappointed in him. And I love him. I just hate that he has done this. It's a very bad look," one wrote.

"It's just one day. You can miss this, Fernando," one added.

"Always accept an invitation to the White House regardless of the president. Sports is best void of politics," one shared.

Others, meanwhile, aren't surprised.

"Anyone who knows this guy is not surprised. He doesn't even date because it would distract him," one added.

Indiana's White House visit details are set

Indiana will be visiting the White House on Monday, May 11.

The Hoosiers topped the Miami Hurricanes, 27-21, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Fla. in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in January.

Indiana head coach Curt Cignetti will be appearing at the White House and then the Indy 500, where he'll be driving the pace car, on May 24.

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