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The NFL will not remove Bad Bunny as the headline performer for the Super Bowl halftime show, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated this week.

With this affirmation, Goodell stood by the decision to place the internationally acclaimed singer on the league’s biggest stage, a move that drew criticism from the former president and his political base.

Goodell addressed the debate during his news conference following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the first time he has spoken out on the selection, which has attracted global interest, including a surge in online plays of the artist's catalog alongside backlash.

“The decision was thoroughly considered,” the commissioner said. “I doubt we have chosen an artist where we didn’t have some blowback or disapproval. It’s challenging to do when you have truly countless viewers of fans tuning in.”

The reggaeton star, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a vocal opponent of the former leader. He lately decided to hold a 31-day residency in his homeland, skipping performances in the continental United States, referencing concerns about the expulsion of Hispanic individuals.

The artist, who sings primarily in his native language, is expected to continue this at the big game.

“We believe it will deliver a spectacular performance,” Goodell commented. “He understands the platform that he has, and I think it’s going to be exciting and a unifying experience.”

The host team are staging the Super Bowl on 8 February at Levi’s Stadium in the Bay Area. There is uncertainty if Trump plans to attend, though he has turned physical attendance at high-profile games a key aspect of his second term.

Trump in an interview on conservative news network the outlet said he had “no knowledge of” Bad Bunny.

“I don’t know who he is,” he said. “I don’t know why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. Additionally, they attribute it to some promoter they contracted to select talent. In my opinion it’s absolutely ridiculous.”

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

“He’s one of the top and best-loved entertainers globally,” he said. “This is exactly what we aim to accomplish. It represents a crucial platform for the league. It serves as a key element to the overall experience.”