“Soccer is passion, soccer is a wonderful sport to share with your family and friends, soccer is a big part of my life.” – Fernando Fiore
Few personalities have brought as much excitement, energy, and passion to the world of soccer as Fernando Fiore. With a career spanning decades and an Emmy Award-winning legacy in sports broadcasting, Fernando has become a familiar face to millions of soccer fans across the Americas. As anticipation builds for another thrilling soccer season and the road to the World Cup continues, Kiddos Magazine had the unique opportunity to speak with Fernando about his love for the game, the importance of family, and how soccer continues to inspire and connect generations both on and off the field.
KM: What are some of your favorite soccer memories from childhood?
Fernando Fiore: My favorite soccer memories are tied to my family. Growing up in Argentina, I lived close to River Plate’s stadium, and every Sunday my father and I would walk hand in hand to watch our team play. Back then, Sundays were soccer days, and those moments became a special family tradition that I will never forget.
KM: One of your most memorable experiences as a fan was seeing River Plate become champion in 1975. Can you tell us about that moment?
Fernando Fiore: It was an unforgettable experience. Through a contest, I was able to take my parents to the stadium and watch River Plate win the championship in 1975 after a 17-year title drought. Sharing that historic moment with my mother and father made it even more special. As an only child, it was always the three of us together, and that victory remains one of my most cherished soccer memories.
KM: What inspired your passion for soccer and your career in broadcasting?
Fernando Fiore: My passion for broadcasting started long before my love of soccer. From the time I was 4 or 5 years old, I knew I wanted to communicate and perform. I always wanted to participate in school plays, ceremonies, and public events. As I grew older, I became the master of ceremonies for school celebrations and loved speaking in front of people.
Broadcasting wasn’t something I discovered later in life—it was something I felt I was born to do. I was fortunate enough to turn that passion into a career, and I thank God every day for the opportunity to do what I love.
KM: What will your role be during the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Fernando Fiore: The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be my 10th World Cup as a broadcaster, and I’m honored to be part of it. I’ll be returning to Telemundo, where I started my career in 1988, to contribute to both its digital and television coverage. It’s exciting to be part of a World Cup that will reach fans across so many platforms and continue sharing the passion of the game with audiences around the world.
KM: What are “El Presidente” and “Mr. Panini”?
Fernando Fiore: “El Presidente” was a nickname I received in 1999 when we launched República Deportiva on Univision. Since the show was called República Deportiva, the team joked that we needed a president, and the name stuck with fans. More than 25 years later, people still call me ‘El Presidente.’
‘Mr. Panini’ came later through my long relationship with Panini. I’ve been a spokesperson for the brand for many years and have always loved the tradition of collecting stickers, especially with my son, Gianluca. Over time, my connection to the brand became so strong that people began calling me ‘Mr. Panini,’ a title I proudly embrace because it represents family, tradition, and a passion for soccer.”
KM: Why do you think soccer is such a powerful sport for kids and families?
Fernando Fiore: Soccer brings families together. Some of my favorite memories are playing and sharing the game with my son, Gianluca. My advice to parents is to let children choose the sports they enjoy, rather than pushing them. Soccer is special because it’s simple, accessible, and easy to play—just a ball, a few friends, and a passion for the game. It creates unforgettable moments and lifelong connections.
KM: Who are your three favorite soccer players?
Fernando Fiore: My three favorite players are Lionel Messi, Pelé, and Diego Maradona. I’ve been fortunate to broadcast Inter Miami games and watch Messi up close over the last three years. I also had the privilege of spending time with Pelé after his years with the Cosmos, creating memories I will always cherish. And Maradona was simply a magician on the field—one of the greatest talents the game has ever seen. Those three stand out as my all-time favorites.
For more information about Fernando Fiore visit www.ferfiore.com or follow his IG @fioreoficial
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