U.S. Vice President JD Vance Donates Two Luxury Buses to Ohio State Football Team During Victory Celebration…

Columbus, Ohio — April 15, 2025

In a gesture that stunned players, coaches, fans, and alumni alike, United States Vice President JD Vance celebrated Ohio State Football’s latest championship victory by donating two brand-new luxury buses to the team. The symbolic and logistical gift comes in the wake of the Buckeyes’ thrilling win in the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship, cementing their place at the top of college football once again.

The ceremony, held on campus at the Ohio Stadium, known to fans as “The Horseshoe,” was a festive blend of tradition and modern flair. Vice President Vance, a proud Ohio native and Yale Law graduate who has maintained close ties with the state despite his rise on the national political stage, took the opportunity to both honor the program’s achievement and invest directly in its future.

A Celebration Like No Other

Thousands of students, alumni, and Columbus residents gathered outside the stadium for what was originally intended to be a celebratory rally for the championship-winning team. Speeches from players and Coach Ryan Day, highlight reels on massive LED screens, and performances by the university marching band gave the event the atmosphere of a grand festival.

However, the crowd reached a fever pitch when Vice President JD Vance took the stage, dressed smartly in a navy-blue suit and a scarlet-and-gray Ohio State tie. Standing beside university president Kristina M. Johnson and Athletic Director Gene Smith, Vance delivered a passionate address.

“This team has reminded America of what grit, excellence, and heart look like,” Vance began. “As someone who grew up believing that football in Ohio was a way of life, it fills me with pride to see these young men bring home the title.”

He went on to describe his years growing up in Middletown, Ohio, where he watched Ohio State games with his grandfather and dreamed of moments like these. Then, in a moment that shocked the crowd, he gestured behind him as two shimmering scarlet luxury buses emblazoned with the Ohio State logo rolled in.

“These buses,” he said, pausing as the crowd erupted in cheers, “are my personal gift to this team—not just for winning, but for showing the country what Ohio is made of. Every time you ride in these, remember: you’ve got the heart of a champion.”

State-of-the-Art Vehicles for a Championship Program

The donated buses, manufactured by Prevost, a Canadian luxury bus maker known for top-of-the-line comfort and safety, are valued at approximately $1.2 million each. Each bus seats 56 passengers and includes fully reclining leather seats, Wi-Fi, touchscreen entertainment systems, mood lighting, refrigerated storage, and even customized Ohio State-themed interiors. A large graphic along the side of each bus reads: “BUILT IN OHIO. DRIVEN BY CHAMPIONS.”

According to Athletic Director Gene Smith, the buses will be used primarily for in-state travel to away games, recruiting visits, and community outreach programs. “This isn’t just about transportation. It’s about identity, pride, and investing in excellence,” Smith remarked during the ceremony. “We’re immensely grateful to the Vice President.”

Political Message or Genuine Love for the Game?

JD Vance’s gift inevitably sparked political chatter. As a high-profile figure with eyes potentially set on a presidential bid in 2028, some viewed the gesture as a calculated appeal to Midwest voters. However, those close to Vance insist the donation was not orchestrated for publicity but rather rooted in genuine loyalty to the Buckeyes.

“He’s always been a diehard fan,” said Thomas Hale, a longtime friend and political advisor. “If you’ve ever watched a game with him, you know it’s not an act.”

Vance himself addressed this speculation briefly during a post-event interview with local news. “I don’t think everything in life should be seen through a political lens,” he said. “I love Ohio. I love this team. That’s all there is to it.”

Student and Fan Reactions

The reaction among Ohio State students and fans was overwhelmingly positive. “It’s surreal,” said junior linebacker Marcus Oden. “We win the title and the Vice President rolls up with two of the dopest buses I’ve ever seen. It’s like something out of a movie.”

Sarah Jameson, a senior marketing major and president of the student-led Buckeye Boosters fan club, echoed that sentiment. “I don’t care if it’s political. It’s cool. He’s from Ohio. He gets it.”

Social media buzzed with clips of the donation moment, and the hashtag #BuckeyeBuses quickly trended across Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok. Some students joked that the buses “look more comfortable than the dorms.”

Coach Ryan Day: “This Is What Brotherhood Looks Like”

Head Coach Ryan Day, fresh off his second national title with the team, called the moment “historic.” In his speech, he said: “These guys have given everything on the field. We push them to their limits and beyond. When someone recognizes that with something as meaningful and useful as this, it speaks volumes. JD Vance has shown what brotherhood looks like.”

Day noted that the team had struggled with aging buses in the past. “You wouldn’t believe it, but some of those rides were not comfortable. Our equipment was state-of-the-art, but transportation? Not so much. That changes now.”

A Boost for Recruiting and Morale

College football analysts believe the donation could also play a subtle role in recruiting top-tier talent, particularly within Ohio and nearby states.

“Recruits notice everything,” said ESPN college football analyst Tom Luginbill. “When they visit programs, they compare every little detail—from locker rooms to food to how they travel. Showing off luxury buses gifted by the Vice President of the United States? That’s a serious flex.”

Defensive back recruit Devon Talley from Cincinnati posted a photo of the buses on Instagram with the caption: “Might have to ride like a king next year 👀 #GoBucks.”

Legacy and Future Implications

Vice President JD Vance’s donation adds to a growing tradition of high-profile figures supporting college athletic programs in meaningful ways. While private donors and alumni gifts are common, contributions from national political figures are rare—and often scrutinized. Still, many see the move as a bold expression of identity and pride.

“This isn’t just about football,” said Dr. Laura Buchanan, a political science professor at Ohio State. “It’s about reinforcing the narrative of Ohio as a powerhouse—politically, culturally, and athletically. JD Vance is smart enough to know that and sentimental enough to make it real.”

Some political commentators even speculated that this move could be part of a broader rebranding of Vance as a “man of the people” in preparation for a more national campaign.

Beyond the Gridiron: A Community Gift

Though the buses will primarily serve the football program, university officials confirmed they may occasionally be made available to other athletic teams and university outreach efforts. Kristina M. Johnson, the university president, emphasized inclusivity in her statement: “We see this not just as a football gift but as an asset to our entire Buckeye community. Whether it’s our student-athletes or volunteers traveling to underserved parts of the state, this transportation can make a difference.”

She also hinted at a future project involving JD Vance and the university: “This is the beginning of something. We’re already in early talks about educational partnerships that combine athletics, technology, and leadership development.”

Conclusion: A Defining Moment in Buckeye History

In a year full of unforgettable plays, massive wins, and heart-stopping moments, the gift of two luxury buses from Vice President JD Vance might be one of the most symbolic highlights. It fused politics, sports, and local pride into a single event that will likely be remembered for decades.

“Victory is sweeter when it’s shared,” Vance said as he wrapped up his remarks. “Today, we ride together. Today, we roll as one. And wherever the Buckeyes go next, they’ll go in style.”

And with that, the buses’ engines roared to life, ready to carry the champions of college football into their next chapter—on the road and beyond.