COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH) — Before the Columbus Crew take the field Saturday against D.C. United in our nation’s capital, they will make a stop at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

The team announced they will be welcomed to the White House Friday in recognition of its 2023 MLS Cup championship, marking the second time the club is making a trip to the home of the President.

Despite being a three-time MLS champion, the 2020 Crew team that won MLS Cup was unable to make a trip to the White House due to COVID-19 pandemic protocols. Then President Barack Obama welcomed the team in 2008 and now Pres. Biden will host the Black & Gold.

“The Columbus Crew are honored to participate in the special American tradition of celebrating our most recent league championship with the White House,” said Dee and Jimmy Haslam, Haslam Sports Group CEO and Chairman/Managing and Principal Partners. “Our Club, players and staff fully appreciate the unique opportunities we have to represent our supporters, the City of Columbus, Major League Soccer and our sport throughout the world, including through this memorable event.”

MLS is one of multiple North American professional sports leagues that is part of the annual tradition of its title holders earning a trip to the White House. Pres. Biden welcomed National Women’s Soccer League champions Gotham FC Monday, adding the NWSL into the annual list that includes the NFL, MLB, NBA, WNBA, NHL, MLS, NCAA, and more.

Friday’s trip to the Oval Office continues a busy period of Black & Gold celebrations. Since the team’s MLS Cup triumph over Los Angeles FC in December in Columbus, the Crew have celebrated with a Downtown parade and won another trophy with the Leagues Cup victory in August, also over LAFC.

After meeting Pres. Biden on Friday, the team will get back to the pitch as they face D.C. United Saturday at 7:30 p.m. The Crew have already booked an MLS Cup Playoff berth as they seek to become the first team in a decade to win back-to-back MLS Cup titles.