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The NFL will not drop the global music icon as the headline performer for the prestigious mid-game entertainment, League chief Roger Goodell stated this week.

In doing so, Goodell reaffirmed the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the most-watched platform, a move that sparked criticism from Donald Trump and his political base.

Goodell addressed the controversy during his media briefing 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 rise in streams of the artist's catalog alongside opposition.

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

The reggaeton star, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a outspoken critic of Trump. He lately decided to do a 31-day residency in his homeland, avoiding stops in the continental United States, referencing apprehensions about the expulsion of Latinos.

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

“We’re confident it will deliver a great show,” Goodell commented. “He understands the platform that he has, and in my view it’s going to be exciting and a united moment.”

The host team are hosting the championship game on February 8 at Levi’s Stadium in the Bay Area. There is uncertainty if Trump plans to attend, although he has made physical attendance at major sporting events a key aspect of his second term.

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

“I don’t know who he is,” he said. “I don’t know the reasoning behind it. It seems absurd. Additionally, they blame it on an outside booker they hired to select entertainment. I think it’s completely unreasonable.”

Goodell supported the decision on Wednesday, explaining it was determined because of Bad Bunny’s immense popularity.

“He ranks among the top and best-loved entertainers globally,” Goodell affirmed. “That’s what we aim to achieve. It’s an important stage for us. It serves as a key element to the entertainment value.”