🔗 Share this article NFL Stands Firm on Puerto Rican Superstar Super Bowl Performance Amid Political Backlash America's top football league will not drop the global music icon as the star attraction for the prestigious mid-game entertainment, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated this week. In doing so, Goodell stood by the decision to feature the Puerto Rican artist on the most-watched platform, a move that drew negative reactions from the former president and his political base. Goodell addressed the debate during his media briefing following the league's autumn gathering. This marks the initial instance he has spoken out on the selection, which has garnered global interest, including a rise in streams of the artist's catalog alongside opposition. “The decision was thoroughly considered,” Goodell said. “I doubt we have chosen an artist where we avoided pushback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have truly countless viewers of fans that are watching.” Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a outspoken critic of Trump. He lately decided to do a 31-day residency in his homeland, avoiding stops in the continental United States, citing apprehensions about the expulsion of Hispanic individuals. The artist, who sings in Spanish, is expected to do so at the big game. “We’re confident it’s going to be a great show,” Goodell commented. “He understands the opportunity that he has, and in my view it’s going to be thrilling and a unifying experience.” The host team are hosting the championship game on 8 February at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. There is uncertainty if Trump intends to attend, although he has made appearing in person at major sporting events a key aspect of his second term. Trump in an interview on conservative news network the outlet claimed he had “never heard of” the performer. “I don’t know who he is,” Trump stated. “I don’t know the reasoning behind it. It seems absurd. And then, they blame it on some promoter they contracted to pick up entertainment. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.” The commissioner defended the decision this week, explaining it was made because of Bad Bunny’s massive fanbase. “He ranks among the top and most popular performers globally,” he affirmed. “That’s what we aim to accomplish. It’s an important stage for us. It serves as a key element to the overall experience.”