NFL fans were left outraged by the rendition of the Star-Spangled Banner before Sunday’s international game in Madrid.
Ahead of kickoff at the international game between the Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins at Santiago Bernabeu Stadium for the first-ever NFL game hosted in Spain, American pop singer Karina Pasian performed the US anthem, followed by the Madrid Marine Infantry Group Band’s rendition of the Spanish national anthem.
Pasian wore a black mini dress with a deep cowl neckline, paired with thigh-high stockings, garters, and long gloves that reached over her elbows during her performance.
Madrid-based vocalist Karina Pasian sings the U.S. National Anthem for the first-ever NFL game in Spain. pic.twitter.com/vIhnBFq4sA
— NFL (@NFL) November 16, 2025
However, the 34-year-old Grammy-nominated singer’s wardrobe drew sharp criticism from some NFL fans. Under a video of her performance posted on X by the league, several viewers argued that her outfit distracted from her vocals.
One commenter questioned the choice directly, asking why she “felt the need to dress so provocatively.” Another wrote that while Pasian delivered a “lovely” rendition of the national anthem, her attire seemed out of place for the occasion.
Others echoed similar sentiments. “The outfit felt inappropriate, though her voice was beautiful,” one user said. Another argued that her look “took away from the solemnity of the anthem,” while a separate commenter criticized the outfit as lacking decorum for such a performance.
Singer Karina Pasian of the United States prepared to perform the national anthem ahead of the NFL matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the Washington Commanders at Madrid’s Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Nov. 16, 2025.
While some critics felt Pasian’s wardrobe choice was off-key for the moment, many others praised her powerful rendition of the anthem.
“Not many people can sing that song well. She knocked it out of the park. Great job—love it,” one commenter wrote.
Another added, “Cool seeing her get that spotlight in Madrid. The first NFL game there needed a moment like that. The anthem sounded clean, and the crowd locked in right away.”
The 34-year-old Grammy-nominated singer’s attire drew sharp criticism from some NFL fans, who commented beneath the NFL’s X post of her performance, arguing that her outfit overshadowed her vocals.
Others, however, celebrated her talent. “Bringing her powerhouse vocals across the Atlantic … Karina Pasian,” one user wrote. “Historic game, historic vocals. She delivered!” added another.
Pasian — a New York City native now based in Madrid — was selected to perform the national anthem ahead of Sunday’s landmark game, the NFL’s first-ever matchup in Spain. The Dolphins went on to defeat the Commanders 16–13 in a dramatic overtime finish.
At just 13 years old, Pasian drew the attention of major record labels — including Def Jam, Interscope, and Bad Boy — ultimately signing with Def Jam in 2006.
Her career highlights include a Grammy nomination for “Can’t Find the Words” in the Best Contemporary R&B category, as well as a 2007 performance at the White House for President George W. Bush in celebration of Black Music Month.
