Petition Surges for George Strait to Replace Bad Bunny at 2026 Super Bowl

Santa Clara, California – A Change.org petition demanding that Latin superstar Bad Bunny be replaced by country music legend George Strait for the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show has surpassed 100,000 signatures as of November 3, 2025.

The petition emerged following criticism of the NFL‘s decision to feature Bad Bunny, whose real name is Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, at Levi’s Stadium. Supporters argue that his unique performance style does not resonate with traditional American family values expected during football’s biggest event.

Kar Shell, who organized the petition, emphasizes that the halftime show should uphold family-friendly entertainment and focus on American music traditions. The petition cites that country music has been underrepresented among performers in the event’s history. “The Super Bowl halftime show should unite our country, honor American culture, and remain family-friendly,” it claims.

In addition to George Strait, the petition suggests alternative artists such as Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, and Tim McGraw, all known for their strong ties to country music.

The controversy touches on broader social issues, including immigration policy and cultural representation. Notably, former President Donald Trump dismissed Bad Bunny’s halftime announcement, stating he had never heard of the artist and criticizing the selection as “ridiculous.” Trump’s comments echo sentiments from some critics who express discomfort with the Latin artist’s background and advocacy.

Despite the backlash, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell has defended the decision to feature Bad Bunny, citing his global popularity and the show’s goal of reaching diverse audiences. “He’s one of the leading and most popular entertainers in the world,” Goodell stated in response to the petition. “That’s what we try to achieve.”

Bad Bunny is recognized as one of the top streaming artists globally and has made significant contributions to the economy of Puerto Rico. His recent performances have had a measurable impact on the region’s GDP, solidifying his influence in the music industry.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the NFL will address the growing opposition and whether they will stick to their original plan for the halftime show scheduled on February 8, 2026.