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The NFL has no plans to remove Bad Bunny as the star attraction for the Super Bowl halftime show, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated on Wednesday.

In doing so, Goodell stood by the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the league’s biggest stage, a move that drew negative reactions from the former president and some of his supporters.

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 appointment, which has garnered global interest, including a surge in online plays of the artist's catalog alongside backlash.

“It’s carefully thought through,” Goodell remarked. “I’m not sure we have chosen an artist where we avoided pushback or disapproval. It’s challenging to do when you have truly countless viewers of fans tuning in.”

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a outspoken critic of the former leader. He lately opted to do a month-long concert series in his homeland, avoiding performances in the mainland US, referencing concerns about the mass deportation of Hispanic individuals.

The 31-year-old, who performs primarily in his native language, is anticipated to do so at the big game.

“We’re confident it’s going to be a great show,” Goodell commented. “He is aware of the opportunity that he’s on, and I think it’s going to be thrilling and a unifying moment.”

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

Trump in an interview on conservative news network Newsmax claimed he had “never heard of” the performer.

“I don’t know his identity,” he stated. “I can’t comprehend why they’re doing it. It’s, like, crazy. Additionally, they blame it on some promoter they contracted to select entertainment. In my opinion it’s completely unreasonable.”

The commissioner supported the decision this week, explaining it was made because of Bad Bunny’s massive fanbase.

“He’s one of the leading and best-loved performers globally,” Goodell affirmed. “This is exactly what we try to accomplish. It’s an important stage for us. It serves as a key element to the overall experience.”