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The NFL has no plans to drop the global music icon as the headline performer for the Super Bowl halftime show, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated this week.

In doing so, Goodell reaffirmed the decision to place the Puerto Rican artist on the most-watched platform, a move that sparked negative reactions from Donald Trump and his political base.

Goodell commented on the debate during his media briefing following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the first time he has publicly remarked on the selection, which has attracted global interest, including a surge in streams of the artist's catalog alongside backlash.

“It’s carefully thought through,” the commissioner said. “I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an artist where we avoided pushback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have literally countless viewers of fans tuning in.”

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a outspoken critic of Trump. He recently opted to do a month-long concert series in Puerto Rico, avoiding performances in the mainland US, citing concerns about the expulsion of Hispanic individuals.

The artist, who performs primarily in his native language, is anticipated to do so at the Super Bowl.

“We believe it will deliver a spectacular performance,” Goodell said. “He is aware of the opportunity that he has, and I think it will prove thrilling and a unifying moment.”

The San Francisco 49ers are hosting the Super Bowl on February 8 at the Santa Clara venue in Santa Clara, California. There is uncertainty if the former president intends to be there, though he has made physical attendance at major sporting events a key aspect of his current presidency.

The political figure in an interview on right-leaning media the outlet said he had “no knowledge of” the performer.

“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” he stated. “I can’t comprehend why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. And then, they attribute it to an outside booker they contracted to select talent. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.”

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

“He ranks among the leading and best-loved entertainers in the world,” he said. “That’s what we try to accomplish. It represents a crucial stage for the league. It serves as a key element to the overall experience.”