NFL Fans React to Karina Pasian’s Star-Spangled Banner Performance at First-Ever NFL Game in Spain
NFL fans were left divided following the rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner before Sunday’s international game in Madrid. Ahead of kickoff at the historic matchup between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium—the first-ever NFL game hosted in Spain—American pop singer Karina Pasian performed the US national anthem. Her performance was followed by the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band’s rendition of the Spanish national anthem.
Pasian, a 34-year-old Grammy-nominated singer and New York City native now living in Madrid, wore a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, paired with thigh-high stockings, garters, and long gloves reaching over her elbows. While many praised her vocal delivery, her attire quickly drew sharp criticism from NFL fans on social media.
Under a video of her performance posted on X by the NFL, several commenters expressed that Pasian’s outfit overshadowed her vocals. One person wrote, “Nice, but why did she have to dress like a hooker?” Another added, “Great to see the sharing of sport and competition with other countries!! Karina’s rendition of the US national anthem was lovely, but why is she dressed like a hooker? Also very refreshing to see none of the players kneeling during the anthem (at least on camera).”
Other users weighed in on the appropriateness of her wardrobe. “The outfit was a bit inappropriate but her voice was beautiful,” one commenter wrote. Another shared, “Why is she dressed like a cabaret dancer? Takes away all solemnity from the anthem.” Some were harsher, with one user stating, “Who dresses like that to sing a national anthem. Zero home training. Shame.”
Despite the critiques, the majority of fans applauded Pasian’s outstanding performance. “Not many people can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job. Love it,” one user commented. Another added, “Cool seeing her get that spotlight in Madrid, first NFL game there needed a moment like that. Anthem sounded clean and the crowd locked in right away.” Others celebrated her vocal prowess, saying, “Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic. Karina Pasian,” and “Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!”
Pasian’s background adds to the significance of her performance. She first caught the eye of major record labels at just 13 years old, eventually signing with Def Jam in 2006. Her career highlights include a Grammy nomination for the song “Can’t Find the Words” in the Best Contemporary R&B category and a 2007 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush during Black Music Month.
On the field, the Dolphins secured a dramatic 16-13 overtime victory over the Commanders, marking a thrilling conclusion to the NFL’s debut game in Spain.
Karina Pasian’s powerful vocals and memorable performance will surely be remembered as part of this historic international NFL event.
https://nypost.com/2025/11/17/sports/karina-pasian-slammed-over-outfit-during-us-national-anthem-at-first-ever-nfl-game-in-spain/