Coverage and announcements by major Brazilian media outlets

Iconic Brazilian Sports Journalist Léo Batista Dies at 92 After Pancreatic Cancer Battle

Jan 19, 2025, 06:59 PM

Brazilian journalist and sports presenter Léo Batista died on Sunday, January 19, 2025, at the age of 92, after complications from pancreatic cancer. Born in Cordeirópolis, São Paulo, Batista was hospitalized since January 6 in Rio de Janeiro due to a tumor. A lifelong supporter of Botafogo, he was a prominent figure in Brazilian sports journalism, with a career spanning over seven decades. Batista was known for his distinctive voice and was considered an icon in the industry, having worked for Rede Globo for more than five decades. He was the first presenter of 'Esporte Espetacular' and covered multiple Olympic Games and FIFA World Cups. Batista also innovated in coverage of Formula 1 and surfing. He announced the death of Ayrton Senna in 1994 and presented almost all of Globo's sports programs, including the results of the 'Loteria Esportiva' with the 'zebrinha' character. Tributes poured in from media outlets, sports entities, and former players like Cafu, highlighting his contributions and impact on generations of journalists and fans.