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The NFL will not remove the global music icon as the star attraction for the prestigious mid-game entertainment, Commissioner Roger Goodell stated this week.

In doing so, Goodell stood by the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the most-watched platform, a move that drew negative reactions from the former president and his political base.

Goodell commented on the debate during his news conference following the league's autumn gathering. This marks the initial instance he has spoken out on the appointment, which has garnered worldwide attention, including a surge in streams of the artist's catalog alongside opposition.

“The decision was thoroughly considered,” the commissioner remarked. “I’m not sure we have chosen an artist where we avoided some blowback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have truly countless viewers of people that are watching.”

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a vocal opponent of Trump. He recently decided to do a 31-day residency in his homeland, skipping stops in the mainland US, referencing apprehensions about the expulsion of Latinos.

The 31-year-old, who performs primarily in his native language, is expected to continue this at the big game.

“We believe it’s going to be a great show,” Goodell said. “He is aware of the platform that he has, and in my view it will prove exciting and a united experience.”

The host team are hosting the Super Bowl on 8 February at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. It is unclear if the former president intends to be there, although he has turned physical attendance at major sporting events a key aspect of his current presidency.

The political figure during a discussion on right-leaning media the outlet said he had “never heard of” the performer.

“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” he stated. “I don’t know the reasoning behind it. It’s, like, crazy. And then, they attribute it to some promoter they contracted to pick up talent. In my opinion it’s absolutely ridiculous.”

The commissioner defended the choice this week, explaining it was determined because of the artist’s immense popularity.

“He’s one of the top and best-loved performers globally,” Goodell said. “This is exactly what we try to achieve. It represents a crucial stage for us. It’s an important component to the entertainment value.”