A new chapter in American football history began recently with the launch of the Hispanic Football Hall of Fame, an organization dedicated to recognizing Hispanic players, coaches and contributors at every level of the sport. 

The Hall of Fame aims to celebrate the cultural and athletic impact of Hispanic people in football while inspiring the next generation of players and fans. 

Ron Rivera

 

Two football legends, Ron Rivera and Anthony Muñoz, helped establish the HFHOF and serve as founding board members. Rivera, of Puerto Rican ancestry, is a Super Bowl champion as a player, a former NFL head coach and two-time NFL Coach of the Year. Muñoz, of Mexican ancestry, is a Pro Football Hall of Fame offensive lineman widely regarded as one of the greatest players in NFL history. 

“Football has always been a sport that unites people from all backgrounds,” Rivera said. “The Hispanic Football Hall of Fame gives us an opportunity to tell the stories of incredible people who not only achieved greatness on the field, but also opened doors and inspired countless young people in our communities.” 

Muñoz added, “This Hall of Fame is about more than honoring the past — it’s about building a future.” 

Anthony Muñoz

 

The HFHOF, in partnership with the NFL, plans to host an International Flag Football Championship and football camps featuring top Hispanic high school players from around the world. NFL Executive Vice President of Football Operations Troy Vincent, a member of the HFHOF International Advisory Committee, called the initiative “a promise of hope for future generations.” 

“The Hispanic Football Hall of Fame reaches far beyond recognizing the accomplishments of Hispanic athletes, coaches and leaders,” Vincent said. “By honoring the pioneers and elevating the voices of Hispanic players, coaches and leaders, we strengthen the game and inspire young people to see football as a place where they belong, where their heritage is valued and where their dreams can thrive.” 

The HFHOF will spotlight trailblazing players and coaches from past and present through exhibits, events and educational programs. Its inaugural “Celebración de Fútbol” Induction Ceremony is scheduled for spring 2026, launching an annual tradition to honor Hispanic contributions to football. 

Inductees, along with Pro, College, and High School Player of the Year award winners, will be selected by a committee of journalists and broadcasters chaired by Sandy Núñez, NFL Network vice president and HFHOF board member. Other committee members include Judy Battista, Rolando Cantú, Paul Gutierrez, Brandon Huffman, Moisés Linares, Alex Marvez, Armando Salguero and John Sutcliffe. 

The Hispanic Football Hall of Fame is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization founded in 2025. Its board includes Rivera, Muñoz, Núñez, David Ortega, Gary Acosta, Xavier A. Gutierrez and Max Montoya. More information is available atHispanicFootball.org.