Argentine TV presenter Florencia Pena has resigned mid-World Cup after falsely claiming that Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, had passed away following the football legend’s emotional display after netting the first of his three goals against Algeria.
Pena made the unfounded allegation before the Messi family issued a statement confirming that Jorge is facing a “health situation,” with claims that the Inter Miami star was “going to have to leave” Argentina’s World Cup title defence.
“I don’t want to break bad news, but Messi’s father just died,” Pena stated on Luzu TV’s El Show del Verano. “Right in the middle of the World Cup, he’s going to have to leave,” she added.
Later on Thursday, Pena issued a statement apologising for the error, saying she was “deeply ashamed” of what had transpired.
Pena also confirmed her exit from Luzu TV. “I apologize to the Messi family for the awful moment I imagine they are going through,” she said. “I am deeply ashamed to have been the vehicle for this pain.
“I must clarify that this false information was provided to me during the live broadcast, as verified by the production team of the show, and I trusted it.
“Even so, I take responsibility for being part of the mistake, and that’s why I decided to step aside and end my participation in Luzu. I apologise again from the heart; I was wrong.”
Luzu TV has also issued a public apology to its viewers following their former presenter’s on-air blunder. The broadcaster expressed remorse over airing unverified claims.
“We deeply regret the incident that occurred on air during the program. For our channel, broadcasting sensitive information without proper prior verification is unacceptable,” they said.
“Consequently, Luzu TV management has decided to part ways with all those responsible, and Florencia Pena has decided to step aside. We reaffirm our commitment to responsible, respectful, and rigorous communication.”
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Source: Complete Sports
