Appointment of Abu Bakr for Hajj

Why did Muhammad (ﷺ) appoint Abu Bakr (radiyallahu anhu) to lead Muslims during Hajj instead of going himself?

It was a strategic decision of the Prophet (ﷺ) to delegate the responsibility of leading the pilgrims. He was the head of the state and had to instruct and guide them, ensuring that the message was continuing. The Prophet (ﷺ) had to remain accessible for important directives to be given and to teach others who preferred direct interaction with him. ^[1]

Reference:

^[1] Al Mubarakpuri, The Sealed Nectar