Legendary Mexican football commentator, Fernando Von Rossum, is set to receive the prestigious Ralph Hay Pioneer Award from the NFL Hall of Fame this summer. The award recognizes him as the “most important and influential Spanish-speaking announcer of National Football League games.” Von Rossum, a native of Monterrey, Nuevo León, has had a career spanning over 50 years and is revered by many NFL fans in Mexico as one of the most significant voices in the sport.
The announcement was made through the official website of the NFL Hall of Fame, acknowledging Von Rossum’s unparalleled contributions to the sport of American football. His dedication to broadcasting NFL games in Spanish has played a crucial role in popularizing the sport in Mexico.
Jim Porter, the president of the NFL Hall of Fame, expressed that Von Rossum’s selection as the recipient of the Ralph Hay Pioneer Award was highly appropriate. He characterized Von Rossum as a true pioneer, someone who achieved milestones that no one had before. Porter emphasized that the honor is well-deserved, earned through decades of commitment to the game and its fans.
Born on February 21, 1942, in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Von Rossum embarked on his pioneering journey in 1963 when he conducted his first broadcast of an NFL game (Buffalo-Houston) on Channel 6 in his hometown. His contributions to the sport have been profound and far-reaching, making him an icon for Mexican fans of the NFL.
Von Rossum, who has been instrumental in shaping the narrative of American football in Mexico, has left an indelible mark on the sport. His upcoming induction into the NFL Hall of Fame with the Class of 2024 is a testament to his illustrious career and unwavering dedication to the NFL. This recognition not only celebrates his personal accomplishments but also honors the profound impact he has had on the world of football.
