Bad Bunny has drawn sharp criticism after touching a protected archaeological artefact during a museum visit in Mexico City, just days after wrapping up his Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour.
The incident occurred at a site overseen by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). The 31-year-old artist shared a photo showing his hand resting on a carved Maya stone slab believed to date between 250 and 900 AD. The monument features ancient rulers and hieroglyphic inscriptions of significant historical value.
INAH responded quickly, reminding the singer that Mexican law strictly prohibits physical contact with archaeological objects. Officials stressed that even brief handling can damage fragile surfaces and compromise long-term preservation.
Public reaction online proved swift and intense. Many users accused the artist of acting above the rules due to his fame, while others described the act as disrespectful toward Mexico’s cultural heritage. Under Mexico’s Federal Law on Monuments, touching or damaging protected artefacts can result in fines or prison sentences.
Music superstar Bad Bunny is in a bit of hot water after putting his paws on a protected museum exhibit in Mexico on a recent visit … and he even posted pics of his transgression.
Read more: https://t.co/EoynhjwBKj pic.twitter.com/ESDDh3RBZ4
— TMZ (@TMZ) December 29, 2025Bad Bunny later removed the image from social media. He has not issued a public apology or statement addressing the criticism.
Despite the controversy, Bad Bunny remains set to headline the Super Bowl LX halftime show on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in California. The performance will mark his second Super Bowl appearance, following a guest role in 2020, and comes after Kendrick Lamar headlined the 2025 show.
Announcing the milestone, Bad Bunny said the performance represents a tribute to his roots and those who paved the way before him. Broadcasts will air live on NBC, Telemundo, and Peacock, with the kickoff scheduled for 20:30 ET.
Sources say the artist plans to highlight Puerto Rican culture through music, visuals, and choreography. While former US president Donald Trump criticised the booking, music industry figures, including Jay-Z, praised the decision as culturally significant.
As Bad Bunny balances global stardom with heightened scrutiny, the museum episode has renewed debate around celebrity responsibility and respect for cultural heritage. Attention now turns to whether his Super Bowl appearance can refocus the narrative on music rather than controversy.
