Silvio Santos, a legend of entertainment and owner of one of the most important media conglomerates in Brazil, passed away at the age of 93. His connections to football were numerous, to the point that as part of the tributes, there will be a minute of silence before all matches this weekend.
“Today the sky rejoices with the arrival of our dear Silvio Santos. He lived 93 years bringing happiness and love to all Brazilians. The family is very grateful to Brazil for more than 65 years of joyful coexistence. That broad smile and familiar voice will always be remembered with gratitude. Rest in peace, you will always be eternal in our hearts,” stated the SBT network, which he owned, on social media.
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This broadcaster has a long history of sports coverage, including the transmission of World Cups, like the 1994 World Cup that brought the matches of the team that gave Brazil its fourth championship to homes across the country. It continues to provide space for the broadcasting of international and national football.
Brazilian football teams paid tribute to the presenter on their social media, a declared supporter of Fluminense. “The club conveys its condolences to his friends, family, and countless fans and admirers,” stated the Rio de Janeiro team on social media, in messages that were echoed in other similar posts.
One of Silvio Santos’ daughters, Rebeca Abravanel, is also married to Alexandre Pato, the former striker who shone at AC Milan, São Paulo, and the Brazil national team, among other teams.
The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also mourned the death of the businessman and presenter and declared a minute of silence at all matches in the competitions it organizes.
“I deeply regret the passing of Silvio Santos, the greatest communicator in the history of Brazilian television. It is a tradition in my family to watch Silvio Santos’ show on Sundays. Even today I watch it, now presented by his daughter. Silvio Santos is part of the history of our culture and was also one of the greatest businessmen in our country,” declared CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues.
