Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88, was not only a spiritual leader but also a devoted soccer fan. From his deep love for Buenos Aires’ San Lorenzo to meetings with legendary figures like Diego Maradona, his passion for the sport was well known and widely respected.
Following his death, the sports world quickly responded with heartfelt tributes. In Italy, all scheduled sporting events on Monday were postponed in mourning, including several Serie A matches. The Italian Olympic Committee announced that a moment of silence would be observed before all events later in the week.
Gabriele Gravina, president of the Italian soccer federation, described Francis as “a great example of Christian compassion and dignity,” noting his lifelong affection for sports and especially soccer. Gravina added that Francis will remain a lasting symbol in the hearts of believers and soccer enthusiasts alike.
Pope Francis’ connection to San Lorenzo came to light soon after he was elected in 2013, when the club proudly posted a photo of him holding its crest. He was an official member of the club, holding San Lorenzo ID No. 88,235. Nicknamed “the Saints,” San Lorenzo holds a special place in Argentine soccer history, and the team enjoyed a period of success after his election, winning a national title in 2013 and capturing the prestigious Copa Libertadores in 2014. Club representatives made trips to the Vatican to personally present trophies and express their gratitude to the pope.
Plans are underway to name San Lorenzo’s new stadium in honor of Francis.
Although some speculated that Francis also had ties to Italy’s Juventus—given his family’s roots in the Piedmont region—his heart clearly belonged to San Lorenzo. Interestingly, his father, Mario Bergoglio, had a sports background himself, having played basketball in his youth.
Francis also had memorable encounters with fellow Argentine legend Diego Maradona. In 2014, during a Vatican audience linked to a charity soccer match, Maradona gifted the pope a jersey emblazoned with “Francisco” and his famous No. 10. After another meeting in 2015, Maradona declared, “I’m Francis’ top fan.” When Maradona passed away in 2020, the pope included him in his prayers.
One of Europe’s most iconic clubs, Real Madrid, shared condolences on Instagram, calling Francis “a historic and universal figure” who left behind a legacy of compassion and solidarity. The club praised him for his support of the underprivileged and his focus on justice and dignity throughout his pontificate.
Francis’ respect for athletes was clear early in his papacy. Shortly after being elected, he met with Argentina and Italy’s national teams, urging players to recognize their influence—especially on youth. “For better or worse, you are role models,” he reminded them, emphasizing their responsibility both on and off the pitch.
Throughout his leadership, Francis championed sports as a powerful force for unity, inclusion, and personal growth. In 2016, at a global faith and sport conference, he called on leaders to protect sports from corruption and commercialization, urging them to preserve its integrity.
Among those mourning him was Gianluigi Buffon, legendary Italian goalkeeper and former national team captain. “Francis was a special pope, who shone brightly in his time like only the greatest do,” Buffon wrote. “He inspired us with courage and compassion. His legacy will always stay with me.”
