Trump Blasts Bad Bunny Super Bowl Halftime as ‘Crazy,’ Demands NFL Kickoff Rule Changes in 2025
President Donald Trump didn’t hold back when slamming the NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show, calling it “absolutely ridiculous” while also venting frustration over the league’s new kickoff rules. This fiery critique, blending celebrity drama and sports policy, has ignited debates across social media and beyond, spotlighting trending topics like Trump Bad Bunny, Super Bowl halftime, NFL kickoff rules, Donald Trump criticism, and Bad Bunny controversy right at the heart of American entertainment and politics.
The outburst came during a recent Newsmax interview where Trump was asked about boycotting the NFL over Bad Bunny’s selection. He responded by labeling the decision “crazy,” claiming he’d “never heard of” the Puerto Rican superstar despite Bad Bunny’s record-breaking global fame, including billions of streams and sold-out tours. Trump pivoted quickly to the NFL’s revamped kickoff format, insisting the league should “change the kickoff rule” because it’s “ruining the game.” This isn’t the first time Trump has targeted the NFL; his history includes clashes over player protests and league decisions dating back to his first term.
Bad Bunny, born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, was announced as the headliner for Super Bowl LX in February 2026, a move hailed by fans for its cultural inclusivity but decried by conservatives. The artist has been vocal against Trump’s policies, particularly on immigration and Puerto Rico’s treatment post-Hurricane Maria. In a 2025 music video, Bad Bunny included audio criticizing the administration, fueling the feud. Trump’s comments echo broader MAGA backlash, with figures like House Speaker Mike Johnson suggesting alternatives like country singer Lee Greenwood for a more “patriotic” vibe.
Shifting to the kickoff rules, the NFL introduced its “dynamic kickoff” in 2024 and refined it for 2025 to boost excitement while prioritizing player safety. Key updates include allowing trailing teams to attempt onside kicks anytime, not just in the fourth quarter, and adjusting touchback spots to the 35-yard line to encourage returns. These changes have dramatically increased action: Nearly 80% of kickoffs are now returned, up from 22% in 2023, with average starting positions at the 30.8-yard line—the highest since 2005. The setup positions the kicking team at the opponent’s 40, with returners in a “landing zone” between the goal line and 20, aiming to reduce high-speed collisions.
Public reactions have been mixed but vocal. On X, users mocked Trump’s unfamiliarity with Bad Bunny, with one post quipping he’s a “repository of hate so vast he even has some for people he doesn’t know.” Others defended the singer, noting his appeal to Latino voters amid election tensions. NFL legends like Eric Dickerson weighed in harshly, saying if Bad Bunny “dislikes the U.S., keep his ass in Puerto Rico,” though critics clarified his beef is with Trump, not America. Fans praised the kickoff tweaks for revitalizing games, with coaches calling it “back and better” in its second year. However, some, like Trump, argue it dilutes tradition, with posts highlighting oddities like teams taking touchbacks to the 20.
For U.S. readers, this saga touches politics, economy, and lifestyle. Trump’s remarks could rally his base ahead of midterms, influencing Latino turnout in swing states like Florida and Pennsylvania, where Bad Bunny’s influence is strong. Economically, the Super Bowl generates billions in ad revenue and tourism, so controversy might boost viewership—or spark boycotts. Tech-wise, the NFL’s AI-driven analytics track kickoff plays for safety, geo-targeting data to U.S. markets for better fan engagement. Lifestyle impacts include more thrilling games for viewers, potentially shifting how families watch Sundays.
User intent here seems split: Some seek entertainment gossip, others sports updates. The NFL manages this by emphasizing data-driven changes, using fan feedback to refine rules without alienating viewers. Trump, meanwhile, leverages media spots to voice grievances, keeping his brand in headlines.
Viral claims added fuel, like false reports of Trump consulting a “president of Puerto Rico,” debunked as satire. As the 2025 season progresses, expect more tweaks if return rates stabilize. Bad Bunny, unfazed, teased fans to “learn” his music, promising a historic show.
This blend of pop culture clash and gridiron evolution underscores America’s divided tastes. With Trump Bad Bunny feuds dominating feeds, Super Bowl halftime buzz intensifying, NFL kickoff rules evolving, Donald Trump criticism amplifying, and Bad Bunny controversy raging, the intersection of sports and politics remains electric.
By Sam Michael
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