The Italian Football Federation (FIGC) has officially announced the suspension of all football matches scheduled for today, from Serie A to amateur leagues. This decision is a mark of respect following the death of Pope Francis.
“Football and the FIGC mourn the passing of Pope Francis, who passed away this morning at the age of 88,” the official statement reads.
The statement also recalled Pope Francis`s passion for football, mentioning his words during a private audience with the national team in 2019: “Even with a rag ball, miracles can be done.” This passion inspired various initiatives linking football, the Federation, and the Church, including the `Jubilee-Rag Ball` project. The Sports Jubilee celebrations were planned to culminate on June 14th and 15th with a special event in St. Peter`s Square presided over by His Holiness.
Gabriele Gravina, President of the FIGC, expressed his condolences: “Italian football joins hundreds of millions of people in mourning the painful loss of His Holiness Pope Francis. A great example of Christian charity and dignity in suffering, he always showed attention to the world of sport and football in particular, of which he was a fan. His human and spiritual closeness to the sick, the poor, and the persecuted around the world was his deepest testimony, a beacon that will illuminate future generations. He will forever remain in our hearts as faithful and lovers of the game of football.”
“The FIGC, in agreement with all federal components, is suspending all competitions scheduled for today, from Serie A to amateur leagues,” the statement concludes.