Javier Godó received Forbes’ Hall of Fame recognition for his career leading La Vanguardia. He dedicated the distinction to the newspaper, which celebrates its 145th anniversary this year, and defended quality journalism as essential to freedom and democracy.
Marisa Falcó attended the Hall of Fame ceremony with her husband, Javier Godó. Their children, Carlos Godó and Ana Godó, were also present. On 20 October 2026, SpainMedia held the first induction ceremony for its Hall of Fame at Forbes House, as part of preparations for the group’s 20th anniversary in 2027. SpainMedia president and Forbes España publisher Andrés Rodríguez presented the honour to Godó, the first inductee, at a dinner organised in collaboration with Mango. SpainMedia recognised his career as publisher of La Vanguardia, and he dedicated the distinction to the newspaper.
Godó argued that quality journalism safeguards freedom and underpins democracy. He said journalism must seek the truth through investigation, then communicate it, and warned that the communications sector faces difficult times. The award recognised his contribution to journalism and public institutions, including the media’s role in Spain.
La Vanguardia celebrates its 145th anniversary in 2026. Founded in Barcelona by brothers Carlos and Bartolomé Godó Pié, the newspaper published its first issue on 1 February 1881. Godó joined the paper in 1970 and was appointed publisher in 1983; after his father’s death in 1987, he inherited the publication. He has been associated with the same newspaper for 55 years. Under his leadership, La Vanguardia changed its visual and editorial identity in 1989, and his son Carlos later continued its development. Godó said the newspaper has remained within the same family, the Godó family, and linked its history to editorial rigour and independence, alongside a plurality of content.
Grupo Godó’s history grew out of the newspaper’s beginnings. In 1906, the family expanded into sports journalism with the creation of Mundo Deportivo. The business became a multimedia holding in 1998, bringing print publications and radio under one structure. It also covered digital projects, advertising and other communications activities. Carlos Godó became executive chairman of Grupo Godó in 2025, while Ana Godó serves on the group’s board.
The ceremony drew attendees from across public life, including politics and business, as well as figures from culture and journalism. Political appointments have also featured in coverage of the Valencian delegation.
La Vanguardia director Jordi Juan attended with the paper’s Madrid delegate, Enric Juliana. Former editors Màrius Carol and Lluis Foix were also there. Santi Nolla, CEO and director of Mundo Deportivo, and RAC1 director Francesc Cano attended.
Carlos Godó, executive president of Grupo Godó, came with his wife, Maite de Obes. Ana Godó is a group board member; Gabriela Lanardonne was also present. Jaume Gurt represented the group. Pere G. Guardiola and Ramon Rovira were also there. Board members Maite Barrera and Carles Casajuana attended, as did Santiago Torres and María Benjumea. Luis Conde, president of the Salón Náutico Internacional de Barcelona, was also there.
