Juanma López Iturriaga reflects on polarization in Spain
Juanma López Iturriaga, an Olympic medalist and TV presenter with 40% share audiences, shares his concerns about rising social polarization in Spain. In an interview, the Bilbao native born in 1959 laments that polarization, once limited to sports, now permeates all areas. He admits that it gets harder each day not to live angry.
Juanma López Iturriaga, born in Bilbao in 1959, is a unique figure in Spain: the only one who can boast an Olympic medal and TV audiences of 40% share as a presenter. He was a reference in Spanish sports during the 1980s and 1990s, in an era of liberation and euphoria, and in amiable television, which he believes no longer exists.
In the interview published in El Mundo's Papel, López Iturriaga, known as 'Itu', discusses his career. Ten Olympic Games have passed since Los Angeles 1984, and he now stands out for his success as a YouTuber with the channel 'Colgados del aro'. However, the focus is on his current view of society: "Before, polarization was only in sports, now it's everywhere. The goal is the annihilation of the opponent," he states.
He acknowledges the shift in public tone: "Each day it costs me more not to live angry." López Iturriaga recalls his past as a player for Real Madrid Baloncesto and the Spanish National Team, but emphasizes how polarization has invaded everyday life, extending beyond the sports realm he knows so well. His perspective offers insight into Spain's cultural evolution, from unity in sports to widespread division.