Pope Francis passed away on Monday, April 21st, at the age of 88, which deeply saddened the world. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, an Argentinian who chose the name Francis on March 13, 2013, had a strong connection to soccer. He was a devoted fan of the Argentinian team San Lorenzo and had friendships with prominent soccer figures like Diego Armando Maradona.
On April 21st, the Vatican announced his death. Following this, Italy`s Serie A quickly announced the postponement of all games scheduled for that day, rescheduling them for Wednesday. Players, teams, and sports personalities globally responded to the news of Pope Francis`s death. Let`s explore some of the most notable reactions, starting with his childhood club.
San Lorenzo`s Farewell
San Lorenzo, the Argentinian club Pope Francis supported, released a statement and a moving video highlighting Bergoglio`s passion for his team. They stated: “He was never just anyone, always one of us. A `Cuervo` (crow, San Lorenzo`s nickname) as a child and as a man… a `Cuervo` as a priest and Cardinal… a `Cuervo` even as Pope… He always showed his love for `El Ciclón` (The Cyclone, another nickname for San Lorenzo): from watching the 1946 team at the Old Gasómetro stadium, to blessing Angelito Correa in the Ciudad Deportiva chapel, to warmly welcoming the club at the Vatican. Member No. 88235. From Jorge Mario Bergoglio to Francis, his love for `El Ciclón` remained constant. Overcome with great sadness, San Lorenzo today bids farewell to Francis: Goodbye, thank you, and farewell forever! We will be together for eternity!”
Club Statements from Spanish Teams
The major Spanish clubs issued statements shortly after the Vatican`s announcement regarding Pope Francis`s death.
Italian Clubs` Reactions
Italian clubs are particularly affected by the passing of the Pope. Serie A has postponed Monday`s matches. Juventus, originally scheduled to play Parma on Monday, also released a statement about the postponement and the Pope`s death. It remains uncertain if Serie A will resume next weekend, considering the Vatican`s location in Rome and the upcoming funeral arrangements for Pope Francis.
Roman Clubs` Responses
Both AS Roma and Lazio have issued statements. Being based in Rome, where the Vatican is located, these two clubs are likely to be significantly impacted in the coming weeks as Rome prepares for the funeral and the conclave to elect the new Pope.
Dominic Ashworth