Super Bowl champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, were scheduled to visit the White House today.
However, US President Donald Trump had revoked their invitation.
In a statement issued by the White House, Eagles players' stance on the national anthem along with the team's intention to not send a full delegation were cited as reasons.
The Philadelphia Eagles are unable to come to the White House with their full team to be celebrated tomorrow. They disagree with their President because he insists that they proudly stand for the National Anthem, hand on heart, in honor of the great men and women of our military and the people of our country. The Eagles wanted to send a smaller delegation, but the 1,000 fans planning to attend the event deserve better. These fans are still invited to the White House to be part of a different type of ceremony—one that will honor our great country, pay tribute to the heroes who fight to protect it, and loudly and proudly play the National Anthem. I will be there at 3:00 with the United States Marine Band and the United States Army Chorus to celebrate America.
Trump also tweeted regarding the decision to revoke the invitation.
According to the Philadelphia Inquirer, fewer than ten Eagles players planned to attend the event at the White House.
Three Eagles players - Malcolm Jenkens, Chris Long and Torrey Smith - have been vocal supporters of Colin Kaepernick's who kneeled during the national anthem.
The Eagles have since released a statement. Though it did not address the White House situation.
"It has been incredibly thrilling to celebrate our first Super Bowl Championship. Watching the entire Eagles community come together has been an inspiration. We are truly grateful for all of the support we have received and we are looking forward to continuing our preparations for the 2018 season."
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