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The NFL has no plans to remove the global music icon as the star attraction for the prestigious mid-game entertainment, League chief Roger Goodell announced on Wednesday.

In doing so, Goodell stood by the choice to feature the internationally acclaimed singer on the league’s biggest stage, a move that drew negative reactions from Donald Trump and his political base.

Goodell commented on the debate during his media briefing following the annual fall owners meeting. This marks the initial instance he has spoken out on the appointment, which has attracted worldwide attention, including a rise in streams of the artist's catalog alongside opposition.

“It’s carefully thought through,” the commissioner remarked. “I’m not sure we’ve ever selected an performer where we avoided pushback or criticism. It’s challenging to do when you have truly countless viewers of people tuning in.”

Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, has been a outspoken critic of the former leader. He recently opted to do a 31-day residency in Puerto Rico, skipping performances in the mainland US, citing concerns about the expulsion of Hispanic individuals.

The 31-year-old, who sings in Spanish, is anticipated to continue this at the Super Bowl.

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

The San Francisco 49ers are staging the championship game on 8 February at the Santa Clara venue in the Bay Area. It is unclear if the former president intends to attend, although he has turned appearing in person at high-profile games a key aspect of his current presidency.

The political figure during a discussion on right-leaning media the outlet said he had “no knowledge of” the performer.

“I’m unfamiliar with who he is,” Trump said. “I don’t know why they’re doing it. It seems absurd. Additionally, they blame it on an outside booker they contracted to select talent. I think it’s absolutely ridiculous.”

The commissioner supported the decision on Wednesday, clarifying it was determined because of Bad Bunny’s immense popularity.

“He’s one of the top and best-loved entertainers globally,” he affirmed. “That’s what we aim to achieve. It’s an important platform for us. It serves as a key element to the overall experience.”