The controversy over Bad Bunny performing at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show continues to generate heated debate, with some online accounts claiming that Elon Musk threatened to withdraw a $40 million sponsorship deal over the decision.
The rumors first began circulating on social media following the announcement that Puerto Rican singer Bad Bunny would headline the NFL’s halftime event.
Conservative critics have focused on the fact that much of Bad Bunny’s music is not in English, and on previous comments he made regarding U.S. immigration enforcement at his concerts.
The social media claims suggest that Musk opposed the performance, citing Bad Bunny’s statements about avoiding U.S. concerts out of fear of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
One online post stated that Musk had threatened to cancel his sponsorship of the Super Bowl if Bad Bunny performed, arguing that the singer’s remarks were “anti-American.”
The post went on to claim that the NFL faced pressure to replace Bad Bunny or risk losing advertisers, while supporters of the singer and others criticized the alleged ultimatum as censorship.
Several people amplified the post, with some expressing support for Musk’s supposed position, as The Hindustan Times reported.
One user commented, “Yes! Do it! I’m with Elon Musk. He’s right about so much but this one especially! Boycott Super Bowl Bad Bunny (asinine name) JayZ and NFL.”
Another post said, “He should pull it and he can sponsor the all-American halftime show Turning Point is doing.”
The story has gained traction online, with multiple accounts sharing the claim and media outlets reporting on fan reactions.
One source referenced a site called hotnews.otoarizasi.com, which purportedly included a screenshot of an X post attributed to Musk.
Another AI bot, Grok, reported that there were no posts from Musk regarding Bad Bunny or Super Bowl sponsorships, and no verified reports indicated that Musk was sponsoring the NFL event in any capacity.
Despite the social media activity, Bad Bunny is confirmed as the 2026 Super Bowl halftime performer. There has been no official statement from Musk or the NFL regarding sponsorship changes or the alleged threat.
The situation highlights the influence of social media in shaping narratives around major cultural events. Online speculation and unverified reports continue to circulate widely, generating strong reactions from both supporters and critics.
Bad Bunny has embroiled himself at the center of political controversy lately, given his fierce opposition to President Donald Trump and his blatant disgust for the ICE operations ongoing across the nation.
The Puerto Rican artist recently appeared on Saturday Night Live, where he told Americans that they have just four months to learn Spanish and watch the Super Bowl halftime show that he will headline.
Such remarks garnered the attention of many conservatives, who were infuriated.
“Rapper Bad Bunny just told Americans they have “4 months to learn” Spanish if they want to understand his Super Bowl show. Can you imagine if an American artist went to another country & told them to learn English? The NFL should pick a performer who respects American culture,” conservative commentator Danielle D’Souza Gill said.
“How about you learn some goddamn English you reggaeton ret@rd! STFU, you’re in our country!” podcaster Myron Gaines said.
