Full Breakdown
Trump Declines to Attend Super Bowl LX, Criticizes Performers Bad Bunny and Green Day
1/25/2026, 10:52:05 AM
Trump’s Decision Not to Attend Super Bowl LX
President Donald Trump announced that he will not attend Super Bowl LX, scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. In an interview with the New York Post, Trump cited the distance as the primary reason for his absence, stating, “It’s just too far away. I would go if, you know, it was a little bit shorter.” This marks a departure from his attendance at last year's Super Bowl, where he became the first sitting president to participate in the event.
Criticism of Super Bowl Performers
Trump also expressed strong disapproval of the Super Bowl's entertainment lineup, specifically targeting halftime performer Bad Bunny and pre-game act Green Day. He described both acts as “terrible choices” that “sow hatred,” asserting, “I’m anti-them.” This criticism aligns with Trump's previous comments about Bad Bunny, whom he claimed to be unfamiliar with, labeling the selection as “absolutely ridiculous.” Both artists have been vocal critics of Trump and his administration, with Bad Bunny previously avoiding U.S. performances due to concerns over Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raids targeting his fans.
Background on Bad Bunny and Green Day
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, is a Puerto Rican rapper known for his significant influence in the Latin music scene and has been a prominent critic of Trump's immigration policies. He notably canceled U.S. tour dates over fears that ICE would target his concerts. Green Day, a punk rock band from California, has a long history of political activism, often using their music to critique Trump's policies. Lead singer Billie Joe Armstrong has altered lyrics in their songs to reflect opposition to the MAGA agenda, further solidifying their stance against the president.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the backlash surrounding the selection of Bad Bunny and Green Day, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell defended the decision, emphasizing Bad Bunny's global popularity and dismissing the criticism as typical for Super Bowl entertainment. Goodell stated, “We’re confident it’s going to be a great show.”
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of the NFL's choice of performers have emerged from conservative circles, arguing that the selection of Bad Bunny and Green Day is politically motivated and divisive. Some commentators have suggested that the NFL is using the Super Bowl platform to push a left-wing agenda, with figures like Robby Starbuck labeling the choice as designed to alienate certain fan demographics.
What's Next
Super Bowl LX will take place on February 8, 2026, with the competing teams to be determined after the conference championship games. The event is expected to draw significant viewership, continuing its tradition as one of the most-watched television events in the United States.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m anti-them. I think it’s a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible,” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
- “It’s just too far away… I would go if, you know, it was a little bit shorter.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States
- “We’re confident it’s going to be a great show,” — Roger Goodell, NFL Commissioner
In summary, Trump's decision to skip Super Bowl LX and his criticism of the chosen performers reflect ongoing cultural tensions surrounding the event, highlighting the intersection of sports, politics, and entertainment in contemporary America.
