From Album of the Year to Halftime Star

Bad Bunny transformed Levi’s Stadium into a vibrant Puerto Rican street during his performance at the 2026 Super Bowl halftime show on Sunday night. He kicked things off with “Tití Me Preguntó” and featured a lineup of stars, including Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin, creating one of the most elaborate halftime experiences ever.

Wearing a custom white Zara soccer jersey, adorned with his name, Benito Antonio Martinez Ocasio, and the number 64, he made a striking statement.

The significance of the number isn’t totally clear. Some fans speculated it could honor his mother’s birth year, while others mentioned connections to the misreported death toll from Hurricane Maria back in 2017, an event that devastated Puerto Rico. There’s also the 64th U.S. Congress, which in 1917 enacted the Jones-Shafroth Act that granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans. But, I think it might also symbolize Bad Bunny’s impactful presence in the music industry.

In 2023, his album “Un Verano Sin Ti” was the first Spanish-language album to be nominated for Album of the Year at the Grammys. Just last week, he won three awards, including Album of the Year for his first Spanish-language record, “Debi Tilal Mas Fotos.”

Recently, he also shook up the fashion world, donning Schiaparelli’s debut men’s red carpet design featuring a corseted tuxedo.

During his acceptance speeches, he passionately addressed political issues, particularly calling for an end to ICE’s actions. “Before I say thank God, I want to say please stop ICE,” he declared. “We are not savages, we are not animals, we are not aliens. We are humans and we are Americans.”

In a touching moment, he handed a Grammy Award to a child watching a clip of his speech during the halftime show.

On a different note, Donald Trump mentioned he would skip important games, criticizing halftime performers like Bad Bunny. In reaction, Turning Point USA announced a competing show featuring Kid Rock, while NFL commissioner Roger Goodell supported Bad Bunny.

Later in his performance, Bad Bunny switched his jersey for a stylish double-breasted suit, further showcasing his flair.

His backup dancers sported Zara streetwear, complementing the star’s unique style. “He understands the role he plays,” Goodell commented on Bad Bunny’s Grammy speech, noting the importance of using platforms to unite people.

Meanwhile, the Latin trap icon reflected on a poignant moment from a previous Super Bowl where he appeared alongside Jennifer Lopez and Shakira. Overcome with emotion at a press conference, he wiped away tears while discussing his mother.

He also hinted at a fun, lively performance. “I just want to have fun. It’s going to be a big party… People just need to focus on dancing. Learning Spanish isn’t even necessary; what matters is dancing with your heart,” he shared.

Bad Bunny had announced his headlining role back in September 2025, expressing the performance’s significance for his culture and heritage. “What I feel is bigger than myself. It’s for those who paved the way for me,” he said.