Argentine football and journalism came together in an emotional moment at the 2026 Martín Fierro Awards as legendary sports journalist Enrique Macaya Márquez received a standing ovation for his remarkable career.
The 91-year-old journalist was honoured during the prestigious awards ceremony in Buenos Aires for his incredible contribution to sports broadcasting and his record-breaking coverage of FIFA World Cups.
The tribute was presented by some of Argentina’s most respected football commentators, including Juan Pablo Varsky, Sebastián Vignolo, Pablo Giralt and Diego Latorre.
The group walked onto the stage together to celebrate Macaya’s extraordinary legacy in football journalism.
Macaya first covered a FIFA World Cup in Sweden in 1958 and has reported on every World Cup tournament since then.
He covered his 17th World Cup in Qatar in 2022 and is now preparing to cover the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
During his emotional speech, Macaya thanked everyone who supported him throughout his long journey in journalism.
He also humbly asked to always be remembered with affection, a statement that moved many people inside the theatre and across social media. The entire audience rose to its feet in applause as the veteran journalist spoke.
Macaya began working in radio at the age of 15 and later became one of the most respected voices in Argentine football.
Over the decades, he worked for major radio stations, newspapers and television programmes, earning admiration from football fans across generations.
In 2022, FIFA and the International Sports Press Association recognised him for covering more World Cups than any other active journalist.
The emotional tribute at the Martín Fierro Awards served as a reminder of the importance of celebrating legends while they are still alive to receive the love and appreciation they deserve.
