The passing of Francisco Pinto Balsemão was reported globally, with international media highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in Portuguese democracy.
The Spanish newspaper El Pais reported on the death of the founder of the Impresa group, recalling a recent quote from the journalist. “I don’t feel like dying but I’m aware that my train is about to arrive at the station. I’m ready for it,” the publication cited, referring to Pinto Balsemão as “an icon for the generation that transitioned to democracy” in Portugal.
The Associated Press selected a photo of Pinto Balsemão alongside U.S. Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger to announce his passing. The agency described him as “the creator of a media empire” and recalled his appointment as Prime Minister in 1981 after Francisco Sá Carneiro died in a plane crash in Lisbon.
The Brazilian outlet G1 reviewed Francisco Pinto Balsemão’s life and career, while DW referred to him as one of the “main founders of the center-right party” in the country.
The Italian agency ANSA reported the death of the founder of Expresso, highlighting the “crucial role” he played in “politics, business, and journalism in Portugal.”
“He was a prominent journalist and defender of freedom of expression, leaving a significant legacy in Portuguese media,” wrote Politizia Brasil.
The Death of SIC’s Founder
Francisco Pinto Balsemão died on the evening of Tuesday, October 21, at the age of 88. He was a unique figure in both politics and media, described by the Prime Minister and the President of the Republic as a “founder of democracy” and “one of the most remarkable personalities of the last sixty years.” “Portugal will never forget him.”
Francisco Pinto Balsemão died at nightfall on Tuesday, October 21, at the age of 88. He was an unparalleled figure both in politics and media. “Founder of democracy,” “one of the most remarkable personalities of the last sixty years,” as noted by the Prime Minister and the President of the Republic. “Portugal will never forget him.”
Natacha Nunes Costa with Lusa | 09:03 – 22/10/2025
A statement explained that Pinto Balsemão died “of natural causes,” with his “final moments” surrounded by family.
“A major figure in defending freedom, a staunch advocate of freedom of press and expression, he marked the country’s history over recent decades. He launched the most important Portuguese newspaper, Expresso, in 1973, and Portugal’s first private television channel, SIC, in 1992, among many other editorial projects,” said the statement.
Wake and Funeral
The ceremonies for Francisco Pinto Balsemão begin this Wednesday and continue until tomorrow.
“The wake will take place today, Wednesday, at 6:30 p.m., at the Jerónimos Monastery. The mass will be held tomorrow at 1:00 p.m., also at the Jerónimos Monastery,” according to a note sent to newsrooms.
The mass will be celebrated by the Emeritus Patriarch Cardinal of Lisbon, D. Manuel Clemente.
It should also be noted that the President of the Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, “signed the government decree declaring a national mourning for October 22 and 23,” today and Thursday, “for the passing of former Prime Minister Francisco Pinto Balsemão.”
Leia Também: António Filipe mourns Pinto Balsemão and emphasizes “respect”
