The NFL is under fire for choosing Bad Bunny for the Super Bowl

The NFL went all in on Bad Bunny for the Super Bowl LX halftime show. While millions of fans celebrated the announcement, it also sparked a wave of backlash that the league hasn’t been able to shake off. Still, the Puerto Rican performer—Spotify’s most-streamed artist globally for three straight years—is set to take center stage on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium. But not everyone is cheering.

According to Marca, outlets like the New York Post labeled the Bad Bunny Super Bowl decision “hypocritical” and “unpatriotic.” Critics pointed out that the singer had previously declined to perform in the U.S. as a protest against Donald Trump’s immigration policies. Now, by accepting the most coveted stage in American entertainment, some accuse him of contradicting his own stance. The NFL, meanwhile, seems more focused on expanding its global brand than silencing its critics.

 

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Una publicación compartida de Benito Antonio (@badbunnypr)

Social media ignites

And if that weren’t enough, Taylor Swift’s absence added fuel to the fire. Reportedly, the league tried to secure the pop star for the halftime show instead of Bad Bunny. However, as Marca reported, negotiations collapsed when the NFL refused to adjust its contract terms. Swift, who’s about to release her new album “The Life of a Showgirl,” walked away from the deal—and her fans didn’t take it lightly.

On X (formerly Twitter), reactions were swift and sharp. “Taylor Swift said no and they went with Bad Bunny? What a joke,” one user posted. Another was blunt: “Boycott the Super Bowl.” The NFL, aiming to grow in markets like Brazil, Germany, and Spain, seems determined to win over Latin audiences—even if it means alienating part of its traditional base.

NFL goes further down the rabbit hole!! Bad Bunny 🤔?
I had to google him to find out. The NFL has jumped the shark and lost all credibility with their fanbase of mainstream American culture. How much of this pick had to do with Bad’s anti-Trump rhetoric? He is currently… pic.twitter.com/wB6UeS8EgA

— DandyDonnie (@DandyDonnie1954) September 29, 2025

A guaranteed spectacle

Bad Bunny Super Bowl appearances aren’t new. He joined Shakira and JLo on stage in 2020, has made waves in WWE, and even landed roles in Hollywood. His presence promises a high-energy show, but it also forces the NFL to confront an uncomfortable question. Is it trading identity for reach?

Super Bowl LX hasn’t kicked off yet, but the controversy is already in full swing. Bad Bunny will perform for his people, his culture, and his story. The NFL, meanwhile, may need to change its tune to win back those who feel football is losing its voice