Former NASCAR driver Danica Patrick has sparked controversy after speaking out against the NFL’s decision to have Bad Bunny headline the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show. Patrick, 43, took to social media to express her disapproval, particularly pointing to the Puerto Rican rapper’s Spanish-language songs.
In response to a tweet that criticized Bad Bunny for having “no songs in English” and labeling him an “anti-ICE activist” and “Trump hater,” Patrick wrote on X: “Oh fun. No songs in English should not be allowed at one of America’s highest rated television events of the year… not just for sports.”
Oh fun. 🙄
— Danica Patrick (@DanicaPatrick) September 29, 2025
No songs in English should not be allowed at one of America’s highest rated television events of the year… not just for sports. https://t.co/Q4Q1ZPJySC
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, was officially announced as the halftime performer on Sunday. He confirmed the news in a social media post, writing: “Super Bowl LX. Bay Area. February 2026. #AppleMusicHalftime,” alongside a video of himself atop a goalpost.
In a statement obtained by Page Six, the Grammy-winning artist said, “What I’m feeling goes beyond myself. It’s for those who came before me… this is for my people, my culture, and our history.” He also posted in Spanish, telling fans to “go and tell your grandmother” that he will be the halftime show performer.
Bad Bunny’s selection has drawn criticism from several right-wing commentators, with some accusing the NFL of promoting a “woke” agenda. Patrick, a Trump supporter who began engaging in politics in recent years, also reposted claims calling the rapper a “demonic Marxist.” Her comments come after she campaigned for Donald Trump’s return to the White House and began publicly voicing opinions on political and cultural issues.
In response, NFL executive Jon Barker defended the league’s decision, stating, “Bad Bunny represents the global energy and cultural vibrancy that define today’s music scene… his unique ability to bridge genres, languages, and audiences makes him an exciting and natural choice.”
Bad Bunny had previously voiced concerns over U.S. immigration policies and canceled tour dates due to fears of ICE presence at his shows.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ