UEFA has extended its deepest condolences to Catholic worshippers worldwide and the Vatican following the death of Pope Francis. President Aleksander Ceferin shared a statement, saying, “Pope Francis has been a beacon of hope for all humanity during these times filled with war and hardship. Humanity is now orphaned of his tireless and powerful voice, which always championed the poor, the humble, and the vulnerable, advocating for respect, acceptance, and equality, and imploring for a peace that seemed distant yet was deeply desired by the world.”
The UEFA President further emphasized the Holy Father`s “enthusiasm for football, a passion since his youth, demonstrating a joyful spirit and his ability to connect with people through warmth and a shared sense of humanity.”