NFL Stands Firm on Bad Bunny Halftime Show Performance Despite Political Criticism

The NFL will not remove the global music icon as the headline performer for the Super Bowl halftime show, League chief Roger Goodell announced this week.

With this affirmation, Goodell stood by the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the most-watched platform, a move that sparked criticism from the former president and his political base.

Goodell commented on the debate during his news conference following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the initial instance he has spoken out on the selection, which has attracted worldwide attention, including a rise in streams of the artist's catalog alongside backlash.

“The decision was thoroughly considered,” Goodell remarked. “I doubt we’ve ever selected an performer where we avoided pushback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have literally countless viewers of fans that are watching.”

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a vocal opponent of Trump. He lately opted to hold a 31-day residency in Puerto Rico, avoiding performances in the continental United States, referencing concerns about the mass deportation of Hispanic individuals.

The artist, who performs primarily in his native language, is anticipated to continue this at the Super Bowl.

“We’re confident it’s going to be a spectacular performance,” the NFL commissioner said. “He understands the platform that he has, and I think it will prove thrilling and a unifying experience.”

The San Francisco 49ers are hosting the championship game on 8 February at Levi’s Stadium in the Bay Area. There is uncertainty if Trump plans to be there, although he has made appearing in person at high-profile games a significant part of his second term.

The political figure during a discussion on right-leaning media Newsmax claimed he had “never heard of” the performer.

“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” he said. “I can’t comprehend why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. And then, they attribute it to an outside booker they hired to select entertainment. In my opinion it’s completely unreasonable.”

Goodell supported the choice this week, explaining it was made because of Bad Bunny’s immense popularity.

“He ranks among the top and best-loved performers globally,” he affirmed. “That’s what we aim to achieve. It represents a crucial platform for us. It serves as a key component to the overall experience.”