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Pope Francis' Fervor for Soccer

In the final dozen years of his life, Pope Francis showcased his ardent affection for football, a passion that is now globally recognized and celebrated posthumously.

,   and  ASMedia
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A Football-Loving Pope: Pope Francis's Passion for the Beautiful Game Lives On

Pope Francis' Fervor for Soccer

Embracing a warm, casual tone, let's dive into a heartwarming tale of Pope Francis and his undying love for football that continues to resonate across the globe following his passing at 88 years of age.

As the globe mourns the loss of Pope Francis, Italy's Serie A postponed matches scheduled for Easter Monday, symbolising the profound connection he shared with the sport of football.

Born and raised in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Pope was a lifelong supporter of his hometown football club, San Lorenzo. His unwavering admiration for the team was evident when he received a shirt from the club in 2013.

Throughout his journey to the papacy, the Pope had the opportunity to meet legendary football figures from Argentina, including an unforgettable encounter with Diego Maradona at the Vatican in 2014. Maradona, who passed away in 2020, was dearly remembered by the Pope, who referred to him as the "poet of soccer."

Another timeless football icon, Lionel Messi, forged cherished moments with the Pope as well. In 2013, Messi, along with Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon, exchanged gifts during a visit to the Vatican.

[Lionel Messi during his visit to the Vatican.]

Messi's remarkable career culminated in leading Argentina to the World Cup finals in 2014, finally securing victory in 2022 - an accomplishment celebrated by many, including the Pope.

Throughout his 12 years in the Vatican, Pope Francis graciously welcomed numerous football stars into his home. He held a private audience with Pep Guardiola and his Bayern Munich team in 2014, and Germany's squad, including Thomas Mueller, visited him in 2016 after winning the World Cup.

Former Manchester City striker Mario Balotelli, Juventus icons Andrea Pirlo and Gianluigi Buffon, and many more Italian football greats also paid a visit to the Pope during his papacy.

The Pope's love for football extended beyond his personal interactions, reaching charitable endeavors as well. Brazilian superstar Ronaldinho presented him with a special shirt before a fundraising match in 2022, while Celtic's Brendan Rodgers gifted him a shirt signed by all the players in 2023.

Even as Napoli's president, Aurelio de Laurentiis, presented him with a club shirt, Pope Francis's heart remained firmly with San Lorenzo, a testament to his unwavering loyalty to his roots.

For Pope Francis, football was more than just a game; it was a platform to foster peace and unity.

Check out:

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  1. Italia's Serie A postponed matches planned for Easter Monday, a poignant gesture signifying the deep affinity Pope Francis shared with football.
  2. Before his passing, Pope Francis, fondly known for his love of football, welcomed numerous stars from European-leagues into his home.
  3. Diego Maradona, a poetic figure in football, left an indelible impression on the Pope, who cherished their unforgettable meeting at the Vatican.
  4. The beautiful game also afforded the Pope opportunities to make charity-focused connections, such as when Ronaldinho presented him with a special shirt prior to a fundraising match.
  5. Despite his allegiance to San Lorenzo, Pope Francis extended warm reception to Italian football greats like Mario Balotelli, Andrea Pirlo, and Gianluigi Buffon.
  6. As Pope Francis's legacy lives on, there's no denying that his remarkable fondness for football served as a unique conduit for fostering global connections and promoting unity.
Football-passionate Pope Francis, whose final 12 years on earth were marked by his avid affection for soccer, is being globally recognized for this fervor posthumously.
football-loving Pope Francis, during his final 12 years on Earth, is globally recognized and celebrated for his passion for soccer.
Global admiration for Pope Francis centers on his unwavering passion for football, a pastime he embraced wholeheartedly during his final 12 years on earth.
Worldwide remembrance for Pope Francis, renowned for 12 years of ardent football passion during his lifetime.
Global mourning acknowledges Pope Francis's ardent passion for soccer, a fascination that marked hisfinal twelve years of life, captivating admirers worldwide.
In his final 12 years on Earth, Pope Francis showcased his enthusiasm for soccer, a passion that is being commemorated globally.
Worldwide mourning for Pope Francis, remembered not just for his religious leadership, but also for his ardent love and dedication to football.
Pope Francis, during his final 12 years alive, openly displayed his passion for football, and this aspect of his life is now being recognized and celebrated globally.
Football-loving Pope Francis, during his final 12 years on Earth, is being globally recognized and celebrated for his avid passion for the beloved sport.
Worldwide remembrance swells for Pope Francis, known not just for religious leadership but also for his fervent passion for football spanning the last twelve years of his life.
Football-loving Pope Francis, during his final 12 years on Earth, captured global hearts with his ardent passion for the sport, leaving an enduring legacy.
Football-loving Pope Francis, during his final 12 years on earth, made headlines for his passion for the sport, and his fondness is being globally recognized posthumously.
Football-loving Pope Francis, during his 12-year tenure, captivated the world with his avid passion; this facet of his life is now being commemorated globally.

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