Carlos Santana Doesn't Want to Replace Bad Bunny at Super Bowl

Carlos Santana has forcefully denied claims circulating on social media that he criticised the NFL's decision to have Bad Bunny headline the Super Bowl Halftime Show, calling the allegations completely false.

Viral Facebook posts had claimed the legendary guitarist not only disapproved of Bad Bunny's selection but was actively petitioning to replace the Puerto Rican star as the halftime performer. The posts also falsely suggested Santana had criticised Bad Bunny for wearing a dress.

"I congratulate and celebrate Bad Bunny's success and his position right now with the world and with the Super Bowl," Santana stated (as per Rolling Stone). "I feel total oneness with what he's doing because we are here to utilise art to complement and bring the world closer to harmony and oneness."

The 77-year-old musician expressed frustration with the misinformation campaign, attributing it to broader cultural tensions. "We're living in a time of fear, division, separation, superiority and inferiority. Fear is the flavour right now. Fear is what motivates ignorant people to put words in my mouth — saying that I didn't want Bad Bunny to be represented at the Super Bowl. I never said that, nor would I ever."

Santana went further in his support for the reggaeton superstar, revealing his genuine appreciation for Bad Bunny's music. "Just to be clear, my heart is in total harmony with Bad Bunny, and I celebrate his success, his triumph and his phenomenal achievement," he continued. "I can't stop playing his song 'Monaco' — there's something really magical about it."

The guitarist's manager, Michael Vrionis, highlighted the role of AI in spreading these false narratives. He noted that AI-generated content has been creating a series of trolling posts and rumours about Santana, which the team has been working to counter. "Don't rely on random or unverified posts," Vrionis advised. "Even well-meaning outlets can get misled."

Bad Bunny's upcoming Super Bowl performance has already generated significant controversy, particularly from conservative commentators and far-right groups. Some have threatened to station immigration officers outside the stadium, whilst others have announced counter-programming events.

Santana concluded his statement by urging those spreading misinformation to "do something more creative with their energy."