Former President Donald Trump has publicly declared that he will not be attending the Super Bowl next month in San Francisco, taking a direct swipe at the National Football League for its choice of performers who have expressed opposition to his MAGA movement.
Trump's Criticism of NFL's Performative Line-Up
In an interview with the New York Post, Trump voiced strong disapproval of the NFL's decisions, stating, 'I’m anti-them. I think it’s a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible.' His comments specifically target two high-profile acts: Bad Bunny, set to perform the prestigious halftime show, and Green Day, who will take the stage at the opening ceremony in Santa Clara.
Bad Bunny's Controversial Stance and Exception
Bad Bunny, a rapper born in Puerto Rico with a massive Spanish-language following, has previously refused to perform in the United States over concerns that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) might raid his shows. However, he made an exception to this self-imposed rule when approached by the NFL to play at the Super Bowl, a move that has drawn Trump's ire given the artist's history as a fierce critic.
Green Day's Anti-MAGA Lyrics and Political Activism
Meanwhile, Green Day, another nemesis of Trump, have notably altered lyrics in their songs to underscore their anti-MAGA stance, further polarising their inclusion in the event. Trump's remarks highlight the ongoing cultural and political divides that continue to permeate major American spectacles like the Super Bowl.
Logistical Reasons and Past Attendance
Trump clarified that his decision is partly logistical, citing the distance from the White House. He remarked, 'It’s just too far away. I would. I’ve gotten great hands for the Super Bowl, they like me. I would go if, you know, it was a little bit shorter.' This contrasts with his attendance at the 2025 Super Bowl in New Orleans, suggesting that proximity plays a key role in his participation.
The game is scheduled to be held at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, home of the San Francisco 49ers, on Sunday, February 8. Trump's absence and his pointed criticism add a layer of political tension to what is typically a unifying national event, reflecting broader partisan rifts in contemporary American society.
