Pittsburgh, PA — October 9, 2025 Pittsburgh Steelers owner Art Rooney II has issued a firm ban, barring Latin music superstar Bad Bunny from performing or appearing at Acrisure Stadium following a viral video showing the artist refusing to stand during “God Bless America” at a recent Yankees ALDS game. The decision highlights the organization’s steadfast commitment to patriotism and respect.
The controversy ignited after footage from October 8, 2025, at Yankee Stadium captured Bad Bunny staying seated while the crowd sang the patriotic anthem during the 7th inning stretch of the Yankees’ 9-6 win over the Toronto Blue Jays. TMZ released the video, depicting the Puerto Rican star conversing with friends as fans rose, sparking widespread fury among NFL and Steelers fans on social media.
In a resolute statement released late Thursday, Rooney tackled the matter head-on: “We respect artists, but respect for our country is non-negotiable. If someone chooses not to stand with America, they have no place standing on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ field. Acrisure Stadium is a place of pride and respect. Anyone who can’t stand up for this nation has no spot here—no matter how famous they are.”
The ban arrives amid escalating demands to oust Bad Bunny from the Super Bowl 60 halftime show lineup, set for February 2026 at Levi’s Stadium, after his apparent disrespect toward American values. Steelers Nation has rallied behind Rooney’s decision, with #BanBadBunny trending on X, fans posting, “Art got it right—Acrisure is sacred!” and “No respect, no stage!”
The NFL has yet to comment, but the league may encounter pressure to reevaluate Bad Bunny’s Super Bowl role, particularly with Rooney’s stature as a prominent owner. For Steelers fans, this action reaffirms Acrisure’s role as a stronghold of patriotism. As the Steelers (3-1) gear up for Week 6 against the Cleveland Browns on October 12, the ban adds intensity to an already charged offseason narrative. Stay tuned to Steelers.com for more updates!
Based on reports from Steelers’ media, TMZ, and social media reactions.
