UFC loses $30m on Freedom 250 event at White House

UFC's parent company, TKO Group Holdings, disclosed a $30 million loss incurred during the Freedom 250 event held at the White House in June. Despite the significant financial setback, the event saw an increase in revenue for the second quarter of 2026, as reported by TKO Group. Approximately 4,300 attendees, including US President Donald Trump and Vice President J.D.

Vance, participated in the invite-only celebration marking 250 years of American independence. Tickets were not available to the general public, and initial costs were estimated to surpass $60 million. UFC managed to recoup some expenses through sponsorships, media exposure, and other partnerships. The White House event, which coincided with President Trump's 80th birthday, had a projected ticket price of $1.5 million for special access, though UFC sources confirmed its existence but did not specify the cost.

UFC's chief financial officer, Andrew Schleimer, revealed that the event's costs were significantly higher than usual, partially offset by sold-out global partnerships inventory. Despite the $30 million loss, UFC experienced a 29% year-over-year revenue increase to $535.7 million driven by a $64.7 million increase in media rights, thanks to a $7.7 billion, seven-year contract with Paramount.

The event was broadcast exclusively on Paramount+'s subscription streaming platform, attracting an average of 34 million viewers worldwide.