Italy suspends all sports events to mourn Pope Francis death

Serie A matches and major events across Italy postponed after Pope Francis dies at 88.

An image of Pope Francis and a message announcing a rosary prayer in his memory are displayed on a screen in St. Peter's Square at the Vatican on April 21, 2025. Photo by Isabella Bonotto/Anadolu

By Anna Fadiah and Hayu Andini

Italy came to a respectful standstill on Monday as the country’s sports authorities suspended all scheduled events to honor the death of Pope Francis. The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) urged a full day of national sporting mourning, requesting organizers across the country to pause competitions and observe a minute’s silence during the entire week in memory of the pontiff. The death of Pope Francis, a passionate football fan and beloved global religious leader, prompted a united gesture from Italy’s vibrant sports community.

Pope Francis death was central to every message of mourning, both official and personal. CONI issued a solemn appeal: “We invited national federations and all organisers of sporting events to suspend their competitions on Monday,” a statement read. The directive was met with widespread compliance across disciplines.

Postponements and silent tributes mark Italian sporting calendar

In line with CONI’s guidance, four Serie A matches that were originally set for Monday were officially postponed. These matches—Udinese vs. Torino, Fiorentina vs. Cagliari, Genoa vs. Lazio, and Juventus vs. Parma—will now take place on Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. local time. The rescheduling allows them to conclude before the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg between Inter Milan and AC Milan.

Serie A also confirmed that matches within its youth league would be rescheduled, aligning with the broader mourning period.

The Italian football federation (FIGC), echoing CONI’s call, announced a suspension of all football activity across professional and amateur levels on Monday. In its tribute, the FIGC described Pope Francis as “an example of Christian charity and dignity in suffering, always close to the world of football.” His connection to the game was widely known, and his humility and love for football made him a cherished figure in Italy’s sporting culture.

Tour of the Alps rolls on with silent homage

Despite the nationwide pause, the Tour of the Alps cycling race commenced as planned but began with a touching moment of silence to honor the pontiff’s memory. The event, which serves as a crucial warm-up to the Giro d’Italia, was the only major sporting event allowed to proceed under exceptional circumstances.

Riders, staff, and spectators stood together in reflection, highlighting the Pope’s influence even within non-football disciplines. This moment underscored how Pope Francis death resonated far beyond Catholic circles and touched the wider sports world deeply.

Pope Francis: A football fan at heart

Pope Francis, born Jorge Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, was a lifelong supporter of Argentine club San Lorenzo and known for his fondness for the beautiful game. His deep appreciation for football was matched by his ability to connect with athletes and fans through humility, sincerity, and a message of inclusion.

His death at the age of 88 came after being hospitalized for 38 days due to double pneumonia. He appeared publicly at Saint Peter’s Basilica on Easter Sunday, just one day before his death, inspiring many with what would be his final address to the faithful.

The Vatican formally confirmed his passing early Monday morning. “This morning at 7:35 am the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father,” said Cardinal Kevin Farrell in a public announcement.

Clubs and athletes offer heartfelt condolences

Across Italy, football clubs issued statements to express their sorrow over Pope Francis death. Napoli, one of Serie A’s top clubs, described him as “a man who will be missed by all, not just Catholics. He transmitted a sense of kindness, solidarity, and inclusion.”

Inter Milan, currently in the hunt for the Serie A title, wrote, “FC Internazionale Milano mourns the passing of Pope Francis, a man of faith, humility and discourse, who touched the hearts of us all.”

Even among players, the tributes were personal and profound. Gianluigi Buffon, the legendary Italian goalkeeper who met Pope Francis in a private audience in 2014, recalled, “He showed us the way with great courage and shook our souls. I will carry his example forever in my heart.”

A Pope who brought humility to the Vatican and beyond

Pope Francis’s papacy was defined by a shift in tone and attitude from the Vatican. Emphasizing humility, social justice, and compassion, he connected with everyday people and addressed the world’s most vulnerable populations. His progressive voice within the Church was not without controversy, especially among traditionalists, but his ability to reach people outside religious boundaries, particularly through shared passions like sport, was remarkable.

His wish to be buried not in St. Peter’s Basilica but in Santa Maria Maggiore church in Rome was another example of his simplicity. He will be the first pope in over a century to be laid to rest outside the Vatican. In keeping with his character, he also rejected the tradition of being buried in three coffins, opting instead for a modest single coffin of wood and zinc.

Italian sport embraces mourning with unity

Italy’s decision to suspend sporting events is not only a sign of respect but also a reflection of how Pope Francis death united the country in shared mourning. Whether in Serie A stadiums or rural football pitches, the response from the entire sporting community has been one of reverence and admiration.

The minute of silence observed across competitions this week symbolizes more than a tribute—it represents how the Pope’s influence transcended doctrine and borders, inspiring athletes, fans, and administrators alike. The Italian sporting world, rich in passion and tradition, came together in solemn solidarity to honor the memory of a spiritual leader who understood the joy and community found in sports.

As Italy adjusts to life without Pope Francis, the memories and values he championed will linger, especially in the stadiums, locker rooms, and fields where his impact was deeply felt. The sporting community will continue to honor his legacy—not just this week, but for years to come.