Miranda! performance at Vuelta a España opening sparks online backlash

Argentine pop duo Miranda! opened the 2026 Vuelta a España cycling race in Monaco with a live performance, but the show quickly drew criticism online, particularly from Spanish users, over sound issues and song choice. The performance, which included the official event song "Despierto Amándote" and their classic "Tu misterioso alguien," took place on a circular stage in front of the Montecarlo Casino Source: Clarin.

The backlash

Critics on X (formerly Twitter) expressed disappointment, with comments like "Doloroso espectáculo auditivo y mute en mi TV" and "¿Cómo hemos pasado en este país del mítico tema de Hevia a presentar esta cosa?" Source: Clarin. Some questioned why Spanish artists weren't chosen, while others made harsher remarks, including "A ver si dejamos de contratar argentinos, así en general. Y menos con dinero público" Source: Infobae.

The defense

Argentine fans rallied behind the duo, responding with counter-criticism and irony, such as "De sobra sabemos todos que en España no hay grupos con talento para hacer esto" and "Aguante Miranda! Si no les gusta hubieran subido a alguno de ustedes a cantar, imbéciles sin cultura" Source: Infobae. The exchange escalated into a broader cultural clash, fueled by recent sporting rivalries Source: Infobae.

Sound issues

Reports indicate that the duo experienced audio problems during the performance, with Juliana Gattas repeatedly touching her earpiece, suggesting technical difficulties Source: Clarin. These issues likely contributed to the negative reception, as the broadcast audio was described as defective Source: Infobae. Despite the backlash, Miranda! received applause from the live audience Source: Clarin.