“I’m anti-them”: Donald Trump explains why he won’t attend Super Bowl LX
The US president ruled out attending Super Bowl LX and harshly criticized the selection of Bad Bunny and Green Day as the headlining acts.
The United States is experiencing weeks of intense social and political tension. Recent actions by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), particularly after several operations that resulted in clashes and deaths in cities such as Minneapolis, have reignited a climate of sustained protest across the country. The streets are once again filled with demonstrations, and debate over the use of federal force dominates the public agenda.
This context has even reached major sporting events. Super Bowl LX, the most watched sporting event of the year in the United States, is not immune to the country’s deepening polarisation. The selection of Bad Bunny as the halftime performer and Green Day as the pre-game act has generated mixed reactions, including criticism from the White House.
Against that backdrop, the big news finally arrived: President Donald Trump confirmed that he will not attend the Super Bowl and was emphatic in explaining his reasons during an interview with The New York Post.
“I’m anti-them,” he said. “I think it’s a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible.” the president declared, referring directly to the artists chosen for the event. Trump also rejected the idea that his absence was due to a lack of interest, though he pointed to logistical reasons: “It’s just too far away. I would. I’ve [gotten] great hands [at] the Super Bowl. They like me.” the president added.
The president’s stance contrasts sharply with that of the show’s main performers. Both Bad Bunny, who will headline the halftime show, and Green Day, who will perform before the game, have repeatedly expressed opposition to current US immigration policies and government actions, aligning themselves with affected communities and the protests sweeping the country.
Related stories
Super Bowl LX is therefore shaping up not only as a sporting event with global reach, but also as another stage where sport, music and politics intersect during one of the most tense periods the United States has experienced in recent years.
Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
Complete your personal details to comment