The death of Pope Francis has had a significant impact on the Italian sports calendar. As a mark of respect, the Italian Professional Football League has decided to postpone several Serie A and Primavera 1 Championship matches, affecting both top flight and youth competitions.

Among the postponed Serie A matches are Torino-Udinese, Cagliari-Fiorentina, Genoa-Lazio Roma and Parma-Juventus, all initially scheduled for Monday, April 21. Likewise, three matches in the Primavera 1 Championship have also been postponed: Roma-Udinese, Monza-Sassuolo and Sampdoria-Torino. The League has not yet announced new dates for these matches.

Postponements in other sports competitions

The impact of Pope Francis’ death is not limited to football. Italy has suspended all football matches scheduled for Monday, April 21, including youth and local competitions. This gesture reflects national mourning and the importance of Pope Francis as a global figure and spiritual leader.

In addition, other sporting events in Italy, such as regional tournaments and school sports activities, have also been canceled or rescheduled as a sign of respect. Italian sports federations have issued statements expressing their condolences and highlighting the Pope’s influence in the social and sporting spheres.

A Pope close to sport

Pope Francis, known for his love of football and his support of sport as a tool for social inclusion, was a passionate supporter of the Argentinean club San Lorenzo. During his papacy, he received sports delegations from around the world and used sport as a metaphor in his messages of unity and solidarity.

The decision to postpone sporting events in Italy underscores the connection between sport and the values Pope Francis promoted during his lifetime. The Italian League and other sports organizations have stressed the importance of honoring his legacy at this time of mourning.