To talk about sports journalism in Mexico is to inevitably talk about José Ramón Fernández. His name is linked to decades of broadcasts that marked entire generations, to programs that became benchmarks, and to an unmistakable style that combines passion, rigor, and, above all, authenticity. With more than half a century in front of microphones and cameras, “Joserra” has left an indelible mark on Mexican television and, for more than 15 years, on ESPN, where he continues to be one of the most respected voices in sports analysis.
A path marked by soccer and discipline
Born in Puebla, Fernández had a close relationship with sports from an early age thanks to the influence of his father, who took him to see “La Franja” and encouraged him to follow European teams such as Real Madrid and Real Oviedo closely. That passion was reinforced during his adolescence in Spain, where he had experiences that shaped his destiny: from witnessing historic matches with legends such as Di Stéfano and Puskas to receiving a rigorous academic education from the Jesuits. That combination of discipline, general culture, and love of sports shaped the personality of the commentator who, over time, would revolutionize the way sports journalism is done in Mexico.
From Volkswagen to television
Although his first formal job was at Volkswagen, his destiny was not in the marketing offices, but in front of the cameras. The leap came almost by chance, when he corrected a commentator live on a local channel in Puebla who had confused uniforms during an international match. From that moment on, José Ramón discovered that his place was in commentary and analysis, and shortly afterwards he joined Canal 13, where he began one of the most important stages of his career.
The birth of a school
At Canal 13, which would later become Imevisión and then TV Azteca, Fernández not only hosted flagship programs such as DeporTV, Los Protagonistas, and En Caliente, but also created a critical and analytical style of sports journalism that contrasted with the light and sometimes complacent coverage of other media outlets. He pioneered the combination of rigorous reporting with entertainment, promoting innovative segments and giving space to new talents who continue to set the standard on different networks today. His vision not only transformed the way news was reported, but also shaped several generations of journalists who recognize him as a mentor.
Coverage that made history
His career is adorned with impressive figures: nine World Cups, ten Olympic Games, and more than 3,500 matches narrated throughout his career. From the 1978 World Cup in Argentina to the 2012 Olympic Games in London, José Ramón has witnessed and narrated some of the most memorable moments in sports history. Among his greatest achievements is the creation of the program Los Protagonistas during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, a format that broke the mold and became a benchmark for sports coverage at international events.
From TV Azteca to ESPN: a new stage
After more than three decades at TV Azteca, differences with management and health problems led him to close that chapter in 2007. But his story was far from over. That same year, he joined ESPN, where programs such as Fútbol Picante, Cronómetro, and Los Capitanes consolidated his position as an international benchmark in sports journalism. His direct, critical, and uncompromising style continues to attract thousands of viewers, now backed by one of the most influential networks in the world.
A life devoted to television
Fernández himself has acknowledged that his personal life involved sacrifices. His absolute dedication to television meant that he was often absent at important family moments. However, that commitment also explains why he became synonymous with credibility and passion in sports. Today, with a legacy that spans generations and has even been recognized in a Disney+ documentary, José Ramón Fernández continues to demonstrate that sports journalism can be much more than just reporting results: it can be criticism, culture, entertainment, and, above all, an inspiring voice.
Living legacy
José Ramón Fernández doesn’t just tell sports stories, he is part of the history of journalism in Mexico itself. His career reminds us that passion, discipline, and the courage to speak your mind are powerful tools for making your way in any profession. In our Latino Excellence section, we celebrate his career as an example of perseverance and commitment to the truth, values that inspire both on and off the field.