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British rapper M.I.A is no stranger to controversy, and showing over 100 million viewers the middle finger during a performance at the NFL Super Bowl just got her some more.

The rapper - real name Mathangi 'Maya' Arulpragasam - is a featured artist in Madonna’s new offering Give Me All Your Luvin, along with US rapper Nicki Minaj, who was also on stage at that ill-fated moment.

During her rap solo, she says the words “I don't give a s***” while flipping the bird, according to Daily Mail online.

The NFL and broadcaster NBC have apologised for the incident, but shifted the blame for the unfortunate incident.

According to Daily Mail, league vice president of communications Brian McCarthy said: “There was a failure in NBC's delay system.The obscene gesture in the performance was completely inappropriate, very disappointing, and we apologize to our fans.”

NBC's spokesperson responded: “The NFL hired the talent and produced the half-time show. Our system was late to obscure the inappropriate gesture and we apologize to our viewers.”

M.I.A.'s publicists at Interscope have not commented, says Daily Mail.

A member of the rapper’s camp has spoken up on her behalf, saying it was 'a case of adrenaline and nerves' that influenced the star’s behaviour.

“She wasn't thinking,” said the source, who requested anonymity but was with the artist at Lucas Oil Stadium. “It wasn't any kind of statement. She was caught in the moment and she's incredibly sorry.”

According to TMZ.com, M.I.A may be hit with any fines imposed as a result of the incident.

The rapper reportedly signed a contract for the halftime performance in which she agreed to indemnify the NFL for any money it might be forced to pay if the FCC comes down on the NBC, reports the site.

M.IA. is best known for her Grammy nominated song Paper Planes, which featured in the hugely successful film Slumdog Millionaire. - IOL

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