NAIROBI, Kenya Sept 9 – Tributes have begun pouring in from the sports world, mourning the loss of Capital FM’s Sports commentator, Sean Cardovillis, who passed away on Saturday morning.
The renowned sports commentator who worked here at Capital FM passed away on Saturday morning at his house in Westlands, and his family has been informed.
Reports indicate that he collapsed on the staircase outside his house and the cause of death has not been established.
On receiving the sad news of his death on Saturday, the president tweeted a photo with Sean when he interviewed him at the Word Rally Championships (WRC) in Naivasha recently.
“Saddened by the passing of a brilliant and outstanding sports broadcaster Sean Cardovillis. He was a cool, insightful and gifted journalist who played an integral role on our radio stations. We will miss his clear and concise voice, passion and upbeat personality. Our prayers are with his family and media fraternity at this painful time. Rest in Peace, Sean,” he said.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua expressed his sorrow at the untimely demise of the renowned sports journalist. He acknowledged Sean’s wit and expansive knowledge, particularly in Motorsport.
“Saddened by the untimely death of renowned sports journalist Sean Cardovillis, who passed on this morning. His wit and wide knowledge in various sports, especially Motorsport, will be greatly missed,” Gachagua tweeted.
Capital FM Chairperson Mary-Anne Musangi sent her condolences to the family, describing Sean as an iconic voice in the Sports fraternity.
“I am devastated to learn of the passing of our Sports Presenter Sean Cardovillis who had an extraordinary talent in his work. We stand with the family during this difficult time,” she said.
Managing Director Feisal Baghazal mourned Sean as a “dedicated presenter who knew his game. We will miss him.”
Feisal has assured of the company’s full support to the family during this difficult time.
Capital FM’s Programmes Director Danny Munyi said, “I have lost a friend and colleague. It is shocking, I still can’t believe Sean is no more.”
Sean’s powerful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for sports made him a household name locally and internationally.
At Capital FM, we pay tribute to the man who brought sports to life for millions of our listeners around the world.
Capital FM’s Editorial Director Bernard Momanyi said “We have lost a legend. Sean’s passion and dedication to bringing the world of sports to our listeners was unmatched and his legacy in the world of sports journalism will forever remain an integral part of our newsroom’s identity.”
“I have worked with Sean Cardovillis for over two decades and knew him as an astute, committed and honest sports journalist, and an exceptionally talented, peerless broadcaster,” said Elias Makori, Lead Editor – Sports and Integration Projects at Nation Media Group, who had worked with Sean for two decades.
“Sean raised the bar in sports journalism and broadcasting, and has left an indelible mark in our profession,” he said.
James Wokabi and Mutwiri Mutuota, both former Sports Editors at Capital FM, eulogized Sean as an icon, a legend, and a role model.
Wokabi shared a heartfelt sentiment, revealing that Sean had been instrumental in launching his career, even putting him on air for the first time.
Mutuota, who works at CCTV, still grappling with the news, described Sean’s voice as the standard in sports broadcasting, one that had resonated for over two decades.
Kileleshwa MCA Robert Alai also paid tribute to Sean, noting that the Kileleshwa community had lost a pillar. He hailed Sean as a community leader, sports guru, brother, and friend, recalling how he had listened to Sean and Eddy Kimani on Capital FM during his college days, admiring their unparalleled sports commentary.
Eric Njiru, Vice President of the Sports Journalists Association of Kenya, regarded Sean as a true icon of the sports industry in Kenya and across the African continent.
Anwar Sidi, Route Liaison for the WRC Safari Rally, remembered Sean for his kindness and generosity, acknowledging the impact he had on countless lives.
Fidel Maithya, former Head of Productions at Capital FM, shared his devastation at the news, recounting how Sean had played a pivotal role in his career, opening doors when he joined as an intern.
Media personality Olivia Otieno praised Sean’s character, highlighting his strength during tough times.
Gabriel Oguda fondly recalled Sean as the unmistakable voice behind the Saturday Music & Sports show, expressing that it would never be the same without him.
Sean Cardovillis, with his powerful commentary and infectious enthusiasm for sports, achieved recognition both locally and internationally. At Capital FM, his contributions were immeasurable.
Today, as we mourn Sean, we pay tribute to the man who brought sports to life for millions of our listeners around the world.
Sean Cardovillis, a Sports News Presenter and the host of the popular Saturday Music and Sports show, leaves behind a legacy that will forever be cherished.