Pope Francis, a fervent soccer enthusiast and advocate for sports, passed away on Monday at the age of 88. His death prompted immediate tributes from the global soccer and sports community. In Italy, all sports events scheduled for the day were postponed as a mark of respect, including four major soccer matches. The Italian Olympic Committee announced that a minute of silence would be observed before all sports events this week.
Italian soccer expressed condolences, acknowledging Pope Francis’s influence and his dedication to both faith and sports. The president of the Italian soccer federation remarked on Francis’s embodiment of Christian compassion and his passion for soccer, noting that he would always be cherished by both the faithful and soccer fans.
Pope Francis’s love for soccer was well-known, especially after his election in 2013 when his favorite Buenos Aires club, San Lorenzo, shared a photo of him with the club’s crest. He was a dedicated supporter, even holding membership ID No. 88,235. San Lorenzo, nicknamed “the Saints,” thrived during his papacy, winning a national title and the Copa Libertadores in 2014. Plans are in place to name a new San Lorenzo stadium after him.
Despite suggestions of a connection to Juventus due to family roots in the Piedmont region, Francis’s allegiance to San Lorenzo remained strong. His father, Mario Bergoglio, was a basketball player, further highlighting the family’s sports legacy.
Francis often spoke about the positive influence of athletes, especially on youth. He emphasized their role as role models during a meeting with the Argentina and Italy national teams, urging them to recognize their social responsibility. He met with Diego Maradona twice, fostering a connection over their shared Argentine heritage and mutual respect.
Pope Francis frequently praised sports as a means to foster solidarity and inclusion. At a global faith and sport conference in 2016, he urged leaders to protect sports from corruption and commercial exploitation.
Gianluigi Buffon, Italy’s former national soccer team captain, paid tribute to Francis, calling him a remarkable pope whose courage and guidance will be remembered.
