The NFL has officially confirmed that it will not reconsider Bad Bunny as the headliner for the Super Bowl LX halftime show, set to take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Despite backlash from conservative circles and online outrage from MAGA supporters, the league says the decision stands firm.
At a recent NFL press conference, Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed the controversy directly. He said that while the league often faces criticism for its entertainment choices, it remains focused on delivering world-class performances that reflect the diverse fan base of the sport. “He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world. That’s what we try to achieve,” Goodell said, defending the decision to feature the Puerto Rican superstar.
Reports suggest that the pushback began shortly after the announcement, with some political figures and commentators criticizing the NFL’s choice of a Spanish-speaking artist and referencing Bad Bunny’s previous remarks about immigration and social issues. However, the NFL has made it clear that such opinions will not impact its plans.
Goodell added that the league’s goal is to showcase cultural unity through music and sport, not to cater to politics or division. “When hundreds of millions of people around the world are watching, you’re never going to please everyone,” he said. “What matters to us is creating a unifying moment.”
Bad Bunny’s selection continues the NFL’s trend of spotlighting global artists with cross-genre appeal. The Grammy-winning performer has dominated charts worldwide and holds the title of Spotify’s most streamed artist globally for multiple years. His halftime performance is expected to celebrate Latin music and culture on one of the biggest stages in entertainment.
While some critics questioned whether a non-English-speaking artist could engage the Super Bowl’s primarily American audience, fans and industry insiders see this as a landmark step toward greater inclusivity and international representation.
The NFL’s decision reflects a clear commitment to diversity and cultural relevance. As Goodell reiterated, the halftime show is not just about football, it’s about creating an event that speaks to the world. And in 2026, that world will be dancing to Bad Bunny.
