Iván López, a well-respected Cuban sports commentator and journalist, passed away in Havana on the evening of Tuesday, December 30, according to close sources and social media posts citing his wife.
Numerous tributes from colleagues and sports pages mourned his death, highlighting his extensive career in Cuban print and television media.
Journalist Arnelio Álvarez reported that López's death occurred around 9:00 p.m., with confirmation coming from López's wife. The sports page Swing Completo also confirmed receiving news of his passing from Cuba that night.
Legacy in Cuban Sports Journalism
Iván López dedicated many years to sports journalism at the newspaper Juventud Rebelde before joining the sports division of Tele Rebelde. He was highly regarded for his coverage and commentary during broadcasts of the National Series of Baseball in Cuba.
Many remembered him for his "Pez Rubia" segment in Juventud Rebelde and his unique style in on-field interviews, often making remarks about the weather conditions during games.
A Life Devoted to Sports
Born in Camagüey in 1943, López developed a passion for sports from an early age, participating in baseball and later taking up long-distance running in university, competing in events such as the 3,000-meter steeplechase, 5,000 meters, and 10,000 meters.
His long and fruitful career at Juventud Rebelde and in television earned him the National Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports Journalism in 2019.
Challenges in Later Life
In 2020, it emerged that López was supplementing his meager pension by selling pork cracklings part-time. Journalist Julita Osendi confirmed in an interview that he made pork cracklings on order for friends and neighbors occasionally.
López expressed frustration over his financial situation, saying, "I would be ashamed if I harassed tourists, begged on the street, or borrowed money, but... I do none of that! I have to support Carmita and myself on a paltry retiree salary that doesn't even reach 400 pesos. After so many years of work, 52 in total, I earn 385 pesos, even with the recent increase. 385 pesos!" he lamented.
Social media posts expressed condolences to his family and friends, emphasizing that his voice, passion, and legacy will remain with those who followed Cuban sports through press and television broadcasts.
Frequently Asked Questions about Iván López
What notable achievements did Iván López have in his career?
Iván López was recognized for his extensive work in sports journalism, particularly in Cuban baseball. He was honored with the National Award for Lifetime Achievement in Sports Journalism in 2019.
How did Iván López supplement his income in his later years?
In his later years, Iván López supplemented his pension by selling pork cracklings part-time, as his pension was insufficient to meet his needs.
What was Iván López's early involvement in sports?
Iván López had a strong passion for sports from a young age, participating in baseball and later taking part in long-distance running competitions during his university years.