Fact Check: Is it true that Bad Bunny burned the US flag ahead of Halftime show?

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA: Ahead of the much-anticipated and debated Super Bowl LX Halftime performance by Bad Bunny, an image has been circulating on social media platforms claiming that the Puerto Rican singer has burned a US flag. The claim has sparked speculations with many questioning its authenticity. Let us fact-check the viral image.

Claim: Bad Bunny burned a US flag

As Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio, popularly known as Bad Bunny, is set to perform at the NFL Halftime show, an image of the artist allegedly burning the United States flag has been going viral on social media. 

The picture that is rapidly circulating on X and Facebook in recent days depicts the Grammy-winning artist standing on what appears to be a stage, dressed in a pink, white, and blue outfit, while holding a flaming US flag.

The image has been shared with the claim that it happened last night as part of his preparation for Sunday’s halftime performance.

Fact Check: The viral image is AI-generated

However, a closer look at the image shows a clear sign that it is not real. The image shows several signs indicating that it was created with the help of artificial intelligence. 

Moreover, there are no reliable reports from news outlets, concert footage, or eyewitness accounts that confirm this event occurred.

The timeline shows that the claim is fake. Bad Bunny has not toured since January 25. According to his official schedule, he is currently on a short break with no shows planned until February 13, which is four days after the Super Bowl.

There is no record of him performing anywhere 'last night.' There are also no verified photos or videos from credible sources showing him in that outfit or holding a flag recently.

Super Bowl through a political lens

The Super Bowl isn't just a football spectacle; it’s become a symbol of broader debates over culture, identity, and political debates in the US.

In today’s polarized climate, Bad Bunny’s very presence on the halftime stage is being read through a political lens.

The artist is facing heavy political criticism, most notably from President Donald Trump.

While the president attended last year’s game, he has ruled out a trip to Super Bowl LX, criticizing the NFL’s choice of Bad Bunny and Green Day as 'terrible.'