## From Vatican to the Pitch: The World Pays Tribute to Pope Francis, a Futbol Fanatic
He led billions in prayer, preached peace and compassion, and now, the world is remembering Pope Francis through the universal language of futbol. It turns out the man who inspired millions with his humility and kindness was also a passionate fan of the beautiful game.
Reports from NBC News reveal a side of the late pontiff many may not have known – a man who adored watching his beloved Argentina national team, reminiscing about his childhood love for the sport, and even offering words of encouragement to players.
Plans for a New Stadium Named After the Pontiff
The soccer world is paying tribute to Pope Francis, the “people’s pope” who used his love of fútbol to connect with people around the world. One of the most significant tributes is the plan to name a new stadium after the pontiff. San Lorenzo de Almagro, the Argentine soccer club founded by a priest and named after a saint, has announced that it will name its future new stadium after Pope Francis.
The Pope’s Emotional Response to the Tribute
Pope Francis was visibly emotional when the team formally asked him years ago whether it could name its future new home after him. San Lorenzo President Marcelo Moretti revealed that Francis “said yes with emotion” and was “very happy about it.” The pontiff even got emotional when the team presented him with a piece of the old San Lorenzo stadium and where the new one will be built.
The Legacy Lives On
Pope Francis may be gone, but his legacy lives on in the soccer world. The “people’s pope” was known for his love of fútbol and used the game to connect with people around the world, especially young people. He promoted the “Match for Peace,” where top players take part in a friendly match to promote peace and unity.
Tributes from the Soccer World
FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s Tribute
FIFA President Gianni Infantino paid tribute to Pope Francis, saying that the pontiff “always shared his enthusiasm for football and highlighted the important role our sport plays in society, particularly in the education and protection of children around the world.”
Tributes from Soccer Legends
Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi, two of the greatest soccer players of all time, paid heartfelt tributes to Pope Francis on social media. Ronaldinho posted a photo of him and the pontiff, with the caption “Rest in peace, Pope Francis.” Messi shared a photo of his meeting with the pope, with the caption “a different, approachable, Argentine pope, thank you for making the world a better place, we will miss you.”
The Pope’s Impact on the Game
Pope Francis used fútbol to convey messages of teamwork, inclusion, hard work, and unity. He promoted the “Match for Peace,” which brought together top players from around the world to promote peace and unity. His love of the game inspired a fictional but well-liked scene in Netflix’s hit film “The Two Popes.”
Remembering the Pope’s Fútbol Legacy
Pope Francis will always be remembered as the “fútbol pope.” He was a card-carrying member of San Lorenzo de Almagro and kept paying dues to the club even after he became the pope. He welcomed some of the best soccer players in the world to the Vatican, including goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon from Italy, striker Zlatan Ibrahimović from Sweden, and midfielder Ronaldinho from Brazil.
Conclusion
So, the world mourns Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, a man who, despite his profound spiritual influence, also held a passion for the beautiful game. The story of his love for fútbol, a love shared by millions worldwide, transcends religious boundaries, reminding us of the unifying power of sport. Benedict’s appreciation for the strategic brilliance, the athleticism, and the sheer joy of the game resonates deeply, particularly in a world often divided. This outpouring of love and recognition from the fútbol community is a testament to the enduring legacy of Benedict XVI. It speaks volumes about the universal language of sport, its ability to bridge divides and connect people from all walks of life. His story inspires us to embrace our passions, to find common ground, and to celebrate the human spirit in all its complexities. Perhaps, in the end, it’s not about the goals scored or the trophies won, but about the shared experience, the collective joy, and the enduring human connection that fútbol, like faith, can inspire.
