Atresmedia and Josep Pedrerol end their collaboration after more than a decade. The journalist will step down from 'El Chiringuito' and 'Jugones' on July 20. The decision marks a major shift for Spanish sports television.
Atresmedia has confirmed that Josep Pedrerol will step down as host of 'El Chiringuito' and 'Jugones' after 13 years, with his departure scheduled for July 20. The announcement, made official by the broadcaster, signals the end of one of the most influential eras in Spanish sports television. The final episode of 'El Chiringuito' under Pedrerol's leadership will coincide with a special broadcast marking the World Cup final, closing a chapter that has shaped late-night sports debate and midday sports news for over a decade.
According to Atresmedia, the decision was reached by mutual agreement between the journalist and the company. During Pedrerol's tenure, 'El Chiringuito' established itself as a benchmark for sports analysis and debate, building a loyal audience and expanding its influence beyond traditional television. The group also highlighted that 'Jugones', which Pedrerol presented on laSexta, consistently led its time slot and became a reference point for sports news at midday.
Pedrerol, in his farewell remarks included in the official statement, emphasized the creative freedom and satisfaction he experienced during his years at Atresmedia. He noted the team's success in delivering exclusive stories and engaging nightly debates on 'El Chiringuito', as well as the program's ability to connect with viewers. He also pointed to 'Jugones' becoming a midday leader in multi-sport coverage.
Jose Antonio Antón, general director of Atresmedia Audiovisual, expressed gratitude for Pedrerol's professionalism and the achievements of his team. He acknowledged the impact of their 13-year collaboration and wished them success in future projects. The company also recognized the dedication and contribution of everyone involved in 'El Chiringuito', describing it as one of the most iconic formats in Atresmedia's lineup.
The departure of Pedrerol comes at a time when Spanish sports media is undergoing significant changes, with established programs facing new competition and evolving viewer habits. The end of his era at Atresmedia is expected to prompt speculation about the future direction of both 'El Chiringuito' and 'Jugones', as well as Pedrerol's next steps in the industry. This transition follows a broader trend of high-profile shifts in Spanish media, as seen in other recent developments such as the internal debates within major political parties, highlighted in coverage like the recent analysis of tensions inside the Partido Popular.
For context, 'El Chiringuito' has played a central role in shaping sports conversation in Spain, often setting the agenda for football debates and breaking exclusive news. Its digital presence has grown alongside its television audience, reflecting broader shifts in how Spanish viewers consume sports content. As the July 20 broadcast approaches, attention will focus on how Atresmedia plans to fill the gap left by Pedrerol and whether the programs can maintain their influence in a rapidly changing media landscape.
