The evening of July 27 was poised to be a remarkable celebration for Argentina’s radio industry. However, the absence of Luis Ventura, the president of APTRA, cast a shadow over the gala. This event commenced with a red carpet that was marred by colder-than-usual temperatures, along with numerous moments that didn’t make it to the televised broadcast of the Martín Fierro de Radio 2025.
Hosted in the elegant Jano’s Darwin de Palermo Salon, the event saw live coverage from 7:00 p.m. on America TV, curated by Guido Záffora, Paula Varela, Sabrina Rojas, and Augusto “Tartu” Tartoufoli. They expertly navigated the parade of prominent figures who strode under a heated white tent adorned with blue lights and LED screens, alongside media checkpoints to accommodate accredited press personnel.
Luis Ventura‘s absence was particularly felt at the ceremony. The journalist was recently attacked during a match involving the Victorian Arenas, a team he presides over. He shared in a phone interview that after sustaining a blow to his temple, he had to seek medical attention. “I wanted to go to Martín Fierro, but I’m not in conditions,” he uttered from his car.
Despite the unexpected developments, the red carpet unfolded without delays. Among the early arrivals was Daniel Gómez Rinaldi, elegantly carrying a white bag decorated with newspaper prints. Not long after, Romina Manguel, who received accolades for the best female journalistic work in AM, was spotted alongside the hosts of the gala: Luis Novaresio in a classic black suit and Pamela David, who opted for a chic white, sleeveless dress.
Noteworthy attendees included Paulo Vilouta, who was nominated in the AM driving category, and Mariana AccountaTessi, nominated in female journalistic work. Both engaged with accredited reporters, alongside others such as Nancy Pazos, Clemente cancels, Karina Iavícoli, and Tamara Pettinato, the latter two winning nominations in their respective categories.
Gustavo Sylvestre made a statement by arriving at the prime time and securing a prize for his journalistic endeavors in AM. Similarly, Sebastián Wainraich, who received the FM driver award, accompanied by partner Dalia Gutmann. Eventually, notable figures like Andy Kusnetzoff and María O’Donnell made brief appearances to greet colleagues and snap photographs.
Among the standout figures was Sofi Martínez, a sports journalist from Urban Play, who turned heads in a stunning transparent dress. She was nominated for sports journalistic work, along with Gustavo Grabia, who engaged with fellow journalists in the entrance halls. Alejandro Bercovich was seen covering economic media, while Gustavo Méndez attracted those with showbiz interests.
The red carpet continued to unveil other prominent attendees such as Sandra Borghi and Jonatan Viale, joined by family. Liliana Parodi, the event organizer, arrived alongside Reynaldo Sietecase, a major journalistic figure who managed to keep a low profile. Alejandra Maglietti, pregnant with her first child, briefly chatted with media outlets before dashing away.
Flashing cameras also captured Cristina Pérez and Luis Petri as they posed together on the red carpet. The humorist Lizy Tagliani was another highlight, maintaining her warm charm while posing with her husband and colleague Coast.
As the event progressed, cameras documented other notables like Mariana Arias, Alberto Cormillot, Adriana Salgueiro, Virginia Lago, Teté Coustarot, and Sergio Goycochea posing for photographs. Journalistic names like Ramón Indart and Nacho Ortelli did the same, alongside Enzo Aguilar and Joe Fernández who participated in interviews. Those involved in sports journalism were also well represented by Marcelo Palacios, Gabriel Anello, and Facundo Pastor. The red carpet concluded with the arrival of Matías Martin and Marcelo Polino, who briefly greeted the official transmission before heading into the main hall for the event.
As the start time of the ceremony approached, the quartet of red carpet hosts began to conclude their segment, leading into the official awards ceremony. The venue included circular tables with illuminated acrylic centerpieces branded with the MF (Martín Fierro) logo. Each table was equipped with crystal glasses, bread baskets, and printed cards outlining the evening’s menu.
Guests enjoyed a menu that featured classic and vegetarian options. The appetizer included a goat cheese, tomato, and pesto tart with stuffed gigotines, while the main course offered a veal medallion with arvas mousseline, mushroom sauce, and demi-glace confit. For vegetarians, a stuffed zucchini with quinoa and creamy peppers was available, accompanied by a dessert featuring raspberry mousse and strawberries on almond sablé. The evening concluded with coffee served with petits fours.
Another notable attraction amongst the guests was a giant microphone-shaped award located in the venue, distinctly different from the traditional Guacho statuette. Bearing inscriptions like “On the Air” alongside the classic emblem of MF Radio, its aesthetic resonated with the venue’s golden, black, and blue theme, enchanting both attendees and viewers alike.
Behind the scenes, on the stage side, the coveted statuettes of the night were prepared, including the two Martín Fierro de Oro and the highly anticipated Martín Fierro de Platino.
As the lights dimmed in the ballroom, the ceremony was set into motion by hosts Pamela David and Luis Novaresio. Throughout the event, awards were interspersed with heartfelt tributes and recognitions, establishing emotionally resonant moments that defined the evening.
The memory of Mario Mactas filled the room with a respectful silence as his legacy was highlighted on the screen. Likewise, the appearance of OFF featuring a recorded message from Jorge Lanata touched many guests present. His final phrase, “Long live everything they can, without regret,” received heartfelt applause from the audience.
Additionally, a tribute to 100 years of Radio Miter, presented by Fernando Bravo and Jorge Fernández Díaz, brought recognition from peers spanning multiple generations. In a similar vein, the 40 years of Rock & Pop were celebrated with humor and nostalgia, facilitated by Bobby Flores and Beto Casella. They took a moment to pay homage to legendary tennis journalists Juan José Moro, Guillermo Salatino, and Chiche Almozny, who were warmly received by those present.
As for the major awards, the Martín Fierro de Oro for AM was awarded to A Good Moment (Radio La Red), while the Gold in FM went to No One Stops Us, Beto Casella’s program on Rock & Pop. The esteemed Martín Fierro de Platino was awarded to Aspen 102.3 in recognition of its enduring legacy.
As the night wore on, the venue began to vacate. Many attendees, facing morning radio commitments, chose to leave shortly after their names were called. Some even retraced their steps down the red carpet used upon arrival, opting not to wait for the announcement of the Martín Fierro de Oro or the Platinum awards.
Conversely, winners of the evening’s highest accolades celebrated exuberantly. Amidst hugs, cheers, and applause, they posed with their statuettes on a red carpet that had lost its initial sheen. While some conducted interviews in a relaxed atmosphere, others hurriedly departed with awaiting transportation. In this manner, on a night rich with emotions, recognitions, and absences, the Argentine radio community celebrated its most outstanding voices.
Credit: RS photos/press America