Fans who follow *Los Jefes Deportes* daily have already noticed one of the most significant changes to the show’s panel of analysts. Rodrigo “El Pony” Ruiz, a former Chilean national team player and Mexican soccer legend, has officially joined the sports show to replace Carlos Hermosillo, marking a new chapter for one of the most popular sports programs on Nueva Network and Nueva Onda.
Pony’s arrival has not gone unnoticed. Since his first appearances, the former midfielder has offered candid insights, tactical knowledge, and a perspective shaped by decades of experience both on and off the field.
A legend of Mexican soccer
The addition of Rodrigo “El Pony” Ruiz is not just any commentator.
He is one of the most influential foreign players in the recent history of Mexican soccer.
Born in Santiago, Chile, on May 10, 1972, Ruiz joined Mexican soccer in 1994 to play for the Toros Neza, a team with which he began to win over the fans thanks to his skill, speed, and ability to create scoring opportunities.
He later played for Santos Laguna, Pachuca, Tecos UAG, Veracruz, Puebla, and Estudiantes Tecos, building a career that spanned nearly two decades in Mexico.
However, it was with Santos Laguna that he achieved his greatest recognition.
He played more than 300 official matches for the team from La Laguna and became one of the club’s greatest legends.
Alongside players such as Jared Borgetti, Héctor Altamirano, Matías Vuoso, Oswaldo Sánchez, Fernando Arce, and Daniel Ludueña, he was part of some of the club’s most successful eras.
El Pony won the Liga MX title in the 2001 Clausura Tournament, when Santos defeated Pachuca in the final.
Years later, he was also part of the squad that won the 2008 Clausura, one of the most memorable teams in the club’s recent history.
In addition to his titles, Ruiz left a lasting impression with his soccer skills.
For years, he was considered one of the best playmakers in the Mexican league thanks to his accurate crosses and his vision on the field.
His performance allowed him to become a naturalized Mexican citizen and a widely respected figure among both fans and colleagues.
Pony Ruiz on “Los Jefes Deportes”
The program, led by Álvaro Morales, also features well-known figures such as Ricardo “Tuca” Ferretti, Fernando Ceballos, and Dionisio Estrada.
Every day, they all analyze the latest sports news in a style that combines debate, controversy, and in-depth analysis.
The addition of Rodrigo Ruiz brings a voice with firsthand experience on the field, something that many fans of the show have already highlighted on social media.
His knowledge of Mexican soccer, his perspective on player development, and his international experience enrich the conversations that take place every day.
Everything about the 2026 World Cup, Liga MX, and the major international competitions.
A change that is generating excitement
Carlos Hermosillo’s departure left a significant void on the panel, but Pony Ruiz’s arrival brings a new dynamic to the show.
Many fans believe that his analytical approach and knowledge of soccer can bring a different perspective to the discussions that define Los Jefes Deportes.
Especially in a year as important for international soccer as this one, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Even in his very first appearances, Rodrigo Ruiz has already started generating buzz among the show’s fans, who will now have the opportunity to hear from one of the most respected figures in Mexican soccer.
Tune in to *Los Jefes Deportes* Monday through Friday at 7:00 p.m. on Nueva Onda’s YouTube channel.
You can also listen to the podcast on all audio platforms, such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify, where you’ll also find other Nueva Network shows, such as La Jugada Final.
Filed under: Pony Ruiz at Los Jefes