Professional play-by-play announcer José “Don Gol” Hernández joins Alejandro Hernandez and José Carlos on “The Payoff Podcast” to discuss the financial impact of the 2026 World Cup on South Florida.
The episode highlights Hernández’s broadcasting career, including his roles in ESPN Deportes, beIN Sports and TUDN. He most recently called matches during the 2025 Club World Cup in the United States and is set to serve as a commentator for two matches at this summer’s World Cup.
Hernández described the peak of his career covering the prime years of El Clásico from 2014-18, widely considered one of the most iconic stretches in the rivalry between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, as well as his work during the FIFA Club World Cup.
He also reflected on his most meaningful broadcast, a November 2015 El Clásico. Two days before the match, Hernández received a phone call informing him that his father had passed away. Faced with the decision to step away or remain on the call, he chose to work the match. Recalling saying during a kickoff, “For my father in heaven, this is for you.”
Comparing the tournament to other major events hosted at Hard Rock Stadium, including the Super Bowl LIV, the 2026 College Football National Championship and the 2024 Copa América. The group emphasized that the World Cup will have a greater financial impact on South Florida than it has, with possible growth in merchandise sales, job opportunities, ticket revenue and an increase in business.
Hernández pointed to the match between Colombia and Portugal when asked which matchup could generate the most revenue. Emphasizing the star power and global appeal of players like Luis Díaz, James Rodríguez and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as the rich population of Colombians in this region.
Hernández emphasized that the tournament’s impact will extend far beyond the pitch, leaving a lasting imprint on the local economy and further establishing South Florida as a premier destination for international sporting events.
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