Roger Goodell Confirms No Reconsideration for Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime Show
Roger Goodell, the commissioner of the NFL, has firmly stated that there will be no reconsideration regarding Bad Bunny as the headline performer for the upcoming Super Bowl. This decision has attracted both attention and criticism, particularly from figures like former President Donald Trump.
Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl Halftime Show
During a news conference following the NFL’s fall meeting, Goodell reaffirmed the choice of Bad Bunny, the Grammy-winning Puerto Rican artist. The announcement, made in late September 2025, has garnered worldwide attention, resulting in increased music streams for Bad Bunny.
- Performance Date: February 8, 2026
- Location: Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara, California
Goodell emphasized the thoughtfulness behind this decision, noting that selecting a performer often leads to some backlash. Yet he believes that the excitement generated by Bad Bunny’s performance will unify fans worldwide. “We’re confident it’s going to be a great show,” Goodell stated.
Controversy Surrounding the Decision
Former President Trump has publicly criticized the choice, claiming ignorance of Bad Bunny and describing the selection process as “absolutely ridiculous.” Goodell, however, defended Bad Bunny’s selection by highlighting his immense popularity as a leading entertainer.
Background on Bad Bunny
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been vocal against Trump and his policies. He recently completed a 31-day residency in Puerto Rico, avoiding performances in the mainland U.S. due to concerns over immigration policies affecting Latinos. His Super Bowl act is expected to be performed in Spanish.
Future NFL Discussions
Aside from the halftime show, Goodell addressed other pressing NFL matters during the owners’ meeting. Discussions on potentially banning the “tush push” quarterback sneak have been tabled for now, pending further evaluation. This maneuver has sparked significant debate due to its frequent use by the Philadelphia Eagles.
- Current Season Focus: Monitoring playing strategies and officiating consistency.
Goodell also mentioned that the average game times are down this season compared to last, despite an increase in kick returns. He expects comprehensive negotiations regarding the collective bargaining agreement once the NFL Players Association selects its new long-term leader.
The league anticipates making announcements next year regarding future Super Bowl locations, specifically for the 2028 and 2029 seasons. The excitement surrounding the Super Bowl and Bad Bunny’s performance continues to build, reflecting the dynamic nature of the NFL entertainment experience.
