Ines Sainz may not be a household name for Americans, but that is soon to change.
The Mexican journalist recently sparked nationwide debate on appropriate attire in a work environment when the New York Jets harrassed the 32-year-old decked in skin-tight clothes. It looks like Sainz isn't letting that get to her as she's currently working on some major projects and preparing for a broadcasting future in America.
The enthusiastic reporter shared her thoughts with TheCelebrityCafe.com.
TheCelebrityCafe.com: Many Americans might not know a lot about you. Can you give us a little bit on your background, specifically your journalism experience?
Ines Sainz: I actually worked in television for almost 12 years. I was the first woman in Mexico to be a sports editor. I'm one of the most well known people in Mexico. I interview with the best players in the world from the World Cup, the Olympics, Super Bowl, and Stanley Cup. I always get the best and greatest interviews with the best players for more than nine years. I'm part of the main sports. I also make my own shows; I enjoy the process and also in front of the cameras.
TCC: I heard that you're planning on transitioning into mainstream American television. What has that process been like for you so far and what are you currently working on?
Sainz: It's great to have my chance to do my pieces in English for the American people. It's a new adventure. I'm working on a couple of ventures; talking with Univsion. It's going to be a great year -- a good time in the States. I've been working in Chile and Argentina so I haven't been able to drop by Miami and Los Angeles for the (Univision) show so I don't know what it's going to be about. But there's a couple of ideas. I might also be a producer and be a host of the show. I've been a producer in Mexico for more than eight years. I own my own staff and equipment. I make the ideas. I'm also working on pilots for two new shows, which I'm great at.
TCC: You mentioned being a part of a lot of amazing experiences and events like the Olympics, the Stanley Cup, and the World Cup. Was there an experience or interview that really stood out to you?
Sainz: The World Cup was the greatest success for Mexico – amazing experience. I was in South Africa…an amazing place. Spain soccer players -- a lot of interviews. I was the only one to have one-on-one interviews. Everybody was like, "How can you get it (the interview)?" I've been working with them for eight or more years. Everyone was shocked. I see the greatest players. Cherish it. The Super Bowl is also huge in Mexico – I've already covered six Super Bowls.
TCC: It seems like they really questioned you. Do you ever feel like people don't take you or your journalistic work seriously enough?
Sainz: I think it’s a product of hard work. You have the chance to do the greatest things. I really make my work with a lot of months of preparation -- to have the chance to make the best.
TCC: After getting to meet so many players in your career so far, who are some of your favorites?
Sainz: I would say that I have the chance to interview the greatest players. Kaká from Real Madrid really surprised me. He's simple and nice but the best soccer player. [Roger] Federer is very concentrated and a very nice guy, but also very professional. Gary Rice – so funny but so smart at the same time. Luis from Argentina (her driver who is also currently in competitive driving) – 50-years-old, and he puts all his money to make this adventure possible because he wants to live at least once in his life – made all the arrangements with the mechanics and sharing with everybody.
TCC: You're currently working on the Dakar rally. What has that been like for you?
Sainz: I'm so excited about it. I'm traveling all day. I never imagined it to be like this. Doing [broadcasting] pieces in the morning -- two hours and then take the road. The people are so friendly. I’m so happy and so glad I'm getting to experience it. Yeah, I can say it’s the highlight of my career so far. It’s one of the best experiences. But ultimately in my job, I travel a lot so the traveling itself isn't a big deal. I’ve been doing my job for eight years.
TCC: What else are you currently working on?
Sainz: I'm covering the Super Bowl. Going to be making a couple of interviews with the team players. So excited! I'm going to be in Dallas all week. I'm going to cover many events.
TCC: Any plans for the near future -- like, transitioning into American media for full time?
Sainz: I'm not leaving all the things in Mexico…because I worked very, very hard for a long time for all the things in Mexico. But I think it's a good time to move. So I think it’s time to be focused in the States; time to transition. I'm excited.