The world was saddened by the passing of Pope Francis on Monday, April 21st, at the age of 88. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Argentinian who became Francis on March 13, 2013, was known for his strong connection to soccer. A devoted fan of the Argentinian club San Lorenzo, he also maintained friendships with influential figures in the sport, including Diego Armando Maradona.
Following the Vatican`s announcement of his death on April 21st, Italian Serie A officials immediately decided to reschedule all games planned for that day. These matches were later moved to Wednesday. Players, teams, and prominent figures in sports worldwide quickly shared their reactions to the news of Pope Francis`s death. We will examine some of the most notable responses, starting with his childhood club, San Lorenzo.
San Lorenzo`s Farewell
San Lorenzo, the Argentinian team Pope Francis passionately supported, released a statement and a moving video highlighting Bergoglio`s deep love for the club. They stated, “He was never just someone else, he was always one of us. A Cuervo as a child and as a man… a Cuervo as a priest and Cardinal… a Cuervo even as Pope… He consistently showed his passion for the Ciclón: from his childhood visits to the Old Gasómetro to watch the 1946 team, to when he confirmed Angelito Correa in the Ciudad Deportiva chapel, to his joyful welcomes of blue-and-red delegations at the Vatican… Member No. 88235. From Jorge Mario Bergoglio to Francis, his love for the Ciclón remained constant. Overcome with profound grief, today San Lorenzo bids farewell to Francis: Goodbye, thank you, and farewell forever! We will be together for eternity!”
Club Statements from Spanish Teams
The major Spanish soccer clubs issued statements shortly after the Vatican`s official announcement regarding the death of Pope Francis.
Italian Clubs` Reactions
Italian clubs were notably affected by the news of Pope Francis`s death. Serie A announced the postponement of Monday`s scheduled matches. Juventus, originally set to play Parma, released a statement acknowledging both the postponement and the Pope`s passing. The resumption of Serie A the following weekend remains uncertain, given the Vatican`s location in Rome and the anticipated funeral proceedings for Pope Francis in the coming days.
Roman Clubs` Sentiments
Both AS Roma and Lazio released statements. Being based in Rome, where the Vatican is located, these two clubs are expected to be particularly impacted in the upcoming weeks as the city prepares for the Pope`s funeral and the conclave to elect his successor.
Adrian Whitmore