France has moved this year’s G7 summit to avoid clashing with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday plans. The summit was originally scheduled for June 14-16 but will now take place from June 15-17. Trump announced last year that he plans to celebrate his birthday by hosting a UFC fight on the White House lawn.
The Group of Seven includes leaders from France, Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. France was set to host the meeting in Evian-les-Bains, but the dates had to change because of Trump’s birthday event on June 14.
French President Emmanuel Macron’s office didn’t mention Trump’s UFC plans in their official statement. They simply said the change came from “consultations with G7 partners.” According to People, a White House official told reporters that other countries shifted the dates because they believe Trump’s presence at the summit is essential.
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The White House lawn will become a fighting arena for Trump’s birthday celebration
Trump confirmed in October 2025 that he would host a UFC fight at the White House on June 14, 2026. He made the announcement during a speech at Naval Station Norfolk in Virginia. The event will also celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. “On June 14 next year, we’re gonna have a big UFC fight at the White House, right at the White House, on the grounds of the White House,” he announced.
The White House shared pictures of their plans for the event in September. The images showed a massive octagon fighting ring and bleacher seats that would be built on the South Lawn. Trump has attended many UFC events over the years and has a close friendship with UFC owner Dana White. The sports world has seen its share of controversial moments lately, including CM Punk’s bold comparison to online backlash.
White recently said that the event details are now finalized. “It’s looking like we’ll have 5,000 people live on the White House lawn,” he shared. “And then across the street is the park. It’s called the Ellipse, I think. And we can have 85,000 people there.”
The fighters haven’t been announced yet, but White revealed they will walk from the Oval Office to the octagon. He didn’t confirm whether Trump will join them for the ceremonial walk, but said the president will definitely attend the event.
Athletes facing public scrutiny isn’t new, as seen when an NHL team defended their goaltender from false online rumors. Trump celebrated his 79th birthday in 2025 with a military parade in Washington, D.C. That event also honored the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army.
Published: Jan 10, 2026 12:00 pm