A federal judge rejected the request filed by two Virginia residents who sought to prevent an Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fight scheduled for this weekend at the White House, an event promoted by President Donald Trump and that has generated debate about the use of public spaces for private activities, CNN reported.

The court decision clears the way for preparations for the sporting event to continue, which includes activities both on the grounds of the White House and in areas near the Lincoln Memorial, according to the lawsuit filed by the plaintiffs.

The lawsuit questioned the use of federal spaces

The legal challenge was filed over the weekend by two Virginia citizens, who argued that an event organized by a private entity could not legally be held in federal facilities such as the South Lawn of the White House.

The plaintiffs also questioned the use of other public spaces linked to the pre-combat activities, planned to take place in Washington before the main function.

However, the judge considered that there were not enough elements to order the immediate suspension of the event, allowing the organization to continue forward while the case continues.

An event that generates political and media attention

The relationship between Trump and the UFC is widely known. The Republican president has attended organization fights on multiple occasions and maintains a close relationship with company executives.

The possibility of holding an event of this nature at the White House has sparked interest in both sports and political circles, due to the symbolic nature of the presidential residence and questions about the limits on the use of government spaces for entertainment activities.

Although the legal battle could continue, the ruling represents a temporary victory for organizers and for the Trump administration, which will be able to carry out one of the most unusual events held around the White House in recent years.