Donald Trump has opted against attending this Sunday's Super Bowl, with a new report suggesting that concerns over potential crowd hostility played a decisive role in his decision. The former president had previously cited distance as his reason for skipping the NFL championship game in Santa Clara, California, but sources now indicate deeper political calculations were at work.
Advisers Warn of Potential "Big League" Booing
According to sources speaking to progressive outlet Zeteo, Trump received warnings from advisers and officials that the Bay Area crowd at Levi's Stadium would likely heckle him during the event. One White House official reportedly stated that Trump's chances of being booed "big league" were high, while four individuals familiar with the situation expressed concern about the media coverage such a scene would generate.
A Trump adviser told the outlet that avoiding such a viral moment would be "another thing we don't want right now," indicating strategic considerations behind the decision. The White House did not respond to the Daily Mail's request for comment on these specific claims.
White House Maintains Different Narrative
When reached for comment by Zeteo on Tuesday, White House spokesperson Davis Ingle presented a contrasting perspective. Ingle insisted that if Trump did attend the Super Bowl, "he would receive a warm welcome because America knows he has done more to help this country than any other president in history."
This official statement stands in stark contrast to the concerns reportedly expressed privately by administration insiders about potential negative reception at the event.
Historical Context and Recent Patterns
Trump made history last year by becoming the first sitting president to attend a Super Bowl, traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana less than a month after beginning his second term. That appearance generated a mixed response of boos and cheers from the crowd.
Since that event, where the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs, Trump's approval rating has seen a significant decline. Exclusive Daily Mail polling conducted by JL Partners shows the president with 45 percent approval at the end of January, compared to 54 percent at the start of the first year of his second term.
Recent Sporting Event Receptions
The decision to skip the Super Bowl follows several recent sporting events where Trump received mixed or negative receptions:
- Last month, the president received a mixed welcome at the NCAA college football championship game in Miami between the Indiana Hoosiers and Miami Hurricanes
- In November 2025, Trump was loudly jeered when attending a Washington Commanders game
These experiences appear to have informed the cautious approach to this year's Super Bowl attendance.
Political and Cultural Considerations
Several factors contributed to the administration's concerns about the Super Bowl environment:
- Venue Location: Super Bowl 60 takes place in the Democratic-stronghold of Northern California, an area generally less favorable to Trump
- Musical Performers: Both the pre-game performer Green Day and halftime headliner Bad Bunny are known critics of Trump
- Political Climate: Trump's policies remain divisive, with particular controversy surrounding immigration enforcement and economic concerns
A source close to the president noted that while Super Bowl attendees typically represent wealthier demographics that might align with Trump's base, the combination of his poll numbers and the California venue gave team members "reason to pause."
Trump's Comments on Super Bowl Programming
In recent weeks, Trump has privately complained about this year's Super Bowl being "too woke," according to sources familiar with the matter. He expressed particular displeasure with the choice of musical performers.
When asked by the New York Post about the upcoming Green Day and Bad Bunny performances, Trump stated: "I'm anti-them. I think it's a terrible choice. All it does is sow hatred. Terrible."
Alternative Programming and Historical Perspective
While Trump will not attend the main event, conservative organization Turning Point USA is holding its own counter-programming to the halftime show, headlined by Kid Rock. The group was founded by late conservative luminary Charlie Kirk.
Historically, Trump did not attend any Super Bowls during his first term, making his appearance last year particularly notable. No sitting president had ever attended an NFL championship game in person until Trump broke that tradition following his second election victory, attending with his daughter Ivanka and several grandchildren.
Super Bowl 60 will feature the Seattle Seahawks facing off against the New England Patriots at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
