Bolivian sports journalism icon 'Tito' de la Viña dies at 94

José 'Tito' de la Viña, a towering figure in Bolivian sports journalism, passed away at 94, leaving behind a legacy of professionalism and passion. His death was mourned by sports journalists and major Bolivian clubs.

De la Viña was remembered as a "reference for Bolivian sports journalism, a teacher of generations, and a dear colleague." His career spanned over six decades, beginning in the 1960s as a distinctive voice in radio football commentary. He also contributed significantly to Presencia Deportiva and authored several books on football and sports.

Former Bolivian President Carlos Mesa lauded De la Viña as an "unmistakable voice" and a "reference" whose books enriched specialized literature in the country. The Bolívar and The Strongest clubs, traditional rivals, also paid tribute to him as a "historic reference of sports journalism."

Fernando Nürnberg, president of the Circle of Sports Journalists of Bolivia, described De la Viña as a "journalist of lineage, history, and immense trajectory." He recalled De la Viña receiving the highest recognition from the circle, the Abelardo Raidi Award, thirteen years prior, honoring a life dedicated to guiding and enriching sports journalism.

Born in La Paz in 1931, De la Viña initially studied to be a biochemist but dedicated his life to sports journalism. In 2008, the Association of Journalists of La Paz awarded him the National Journalism Prize for his ethical practices and contributions to training new journalists.