Iconic Brazilian Broadcaster Léo Batista, 'A Voz Marcante,' Dies at 92 from Pancreatic Cancer

Jan 19, 2025, 06:56 PM

Brazilian journalist and sports broadcaster Léo Batista, known as 'A voz marcante' of Brazilian television, has died at the age of 92 in Rio de Janeiro. Batista, whose career spanned more than 70 years, passed away on Sunday, January 19, 2025, after complications from pancreatic cancer. He had been hospitalized since January 6 due to the tumor. Batista worked for Rede Globo for over five decades and was recognized for his significant contributions to sports journalism, including pioneering coverage of Formula 1 and surfing. Notably, he announced the death of Ayrton Senna in 1994. The Botafogo football club, of which he was a passionate supporter, expressed their condolences. His memorable quote, 'Só morre de verdade quem nunca mais será lembrado' ('Only truly dies who is never remembered again'), reflects his enduring legacy in Brazilian broadcasting.