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The NFL has no plans to drop the global music icon as the headline performer for the Super Bowl halftime show, League chief Roger Goodell announced on Wednesday.

In doing so, Goodell reaffirmed the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the league’s biggest stage, a move that sparked criticism from the former president and his political base.

Goodell addressed the controversy during his media briefing following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the initial instance he has publicly remarked on the selection, which has garnered worldwide attention, including a surge in online plays of the artist's catalog alongside opposition.

“The decision was thoroughly considered,” the commissioner said. “I doubt we have chosen an performer where we avoided some blowback or criticism. It’s pretty hard to do when you have literally countless viewers of fans tuning in.”

The reggaeton star, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a vocal opponent of Trump. He recently opted to do a month-long concert series in Puerto Rico, skipping performances in the continental United States, citing concerns about the mass deportation of Hispanic individuals.

The artist, who performs in Spanish, is expected to do so at the Super Bowl.

“We’re confident it will deliver a great show,” the NFL commissioner commented. “He is aware of the opportunity that he’s on, and in my view it will prove exciting and a unifying moment.”

The San Francisco 49ers are staging the Super Bowl on 8 February at Levi’s Stadium in the Bay Area. It is unclear if Trump plans to be there, though he has made appearing in person at high-profile games a significant part of his second term.

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

“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” Trump said. “I can’t comprehend why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. And then, they attribute it to an outside booker they contracted to pick up entertainment. I think it’s completely unreasonable.”

The commissioner supported the choice on Wednesday, clarifying it was made because of Bad Bunny’s massive fanbase.

“He’s one of the top and best-loved performers globally,” he affirmed. “This is exactly what we try to achieve. It represents a crucial stage for us. It serves as a key component to the entertainment value.”