Bad Bunny was once again a trend, this time outside the musical stage. The Puerto Rican singer was caught sitting during the performance of “God Bless America” at Yankee Stadium, during Game 3 of the American League Division Series. The gesture, which took place in front of thousands of fans and television cameras, generated divided reactions on social networks, especially for his role as a confirmed artist for the Super Bowl 2026 halftime show.
An unexpected explanation in the stands
The incident was recounted by Laurence Leavy, known among baseball fans as “Marlins Man,” who was near the “Dakiti” performer. Speaking to the Daily Mail, Leavy said he warned Bad Bunny and his group that they might be criticized for remaining seated. According to him, a representative of the artist responded that Benito did not get up because he was upset with Donald Trump, who had publicly suggested that the Super Bowl should have “an American country singer” instead of a Latin artist.
A political message behind the gesture
Bad Bunny’s alleged annoyance would be related to Trump’s comments about his participation in the Super Bowl show. According to Leavy, the artist reportedly expressed that the former president “doesn’t realize that Puerto Rico is part of the United States,” a phrase that has gone viral on social media as a reflection of the sentiment of several of the singer’s followers. The issue also reignited the discussion about Latino representation at major U.S. sporting events
An artist at the center of the debate
Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, has been criticised by conservative sectors who question his choice for the halftime show because he performs mainly in Spanish. In the midst of the controversy, some groups have called for him to be replaced, while others are organising alternative programming during the event. Nevertheless, the artist continues to lead the cultural and political conversation in the country.
Between admiration and controversy
Leavy said that Bad Bunny was respectful and that although he did not want to stand up, he did so “out of conviction, not arrogance.” He also revealed that the singer refused to appear on camera, stating humorously: “Half the world hates me, the other half loves me.” The episode has once again placed Bad Bunny at the center of the debate on identity, politics and freedom of expression in American entertainment.
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