The Italian football community has been deeply affected by the passing of Pope Francis, who died at the age of 88, just a day after delivering a moving Easter Sunday blessing in St. Peter’s Square.
His death has reverberated far beyond religious circles, touching millions worldwide and prompting the postponement of key Serie A fixtures.
In a show of respect and mourning, the Serie A league authorities have announced the rescheduling of four matches that were initially set for Monday, April 21. These include Torino vs Udinese, Cagliari vs Fiorentina, Genoa vs Lazio, and Parma vs Juventus. According to an official statement released earlier today, these games will now be played on Tuesday, April 23, at 16:30 UTC.
The Italian football federation emphasized the need to honor the late Pope, whose leadership and message of peace and compassion left a lasting legacy. However, the changes to the fixture list may also impact other competitions, including the Coppa Italia semifinal second leg between AC Milan and Inter Milan, which remains scheduled for 19:00 UTC on April 23, though adjustments may still be announced.
In the wake of the Pope’s passing, numerous Serie A clubs have issued public tributes, underscoring the Pope’s influence both within and beyond Italy. Among them, AS Roma shared a particularly poignant message:
“Roma joins in mourning the passing of Pope Francis, a loss that deeply saddens our city and the entire world. His faith, humility, courage, and dedication touched the hearts of millions, establishing him as a moral compass of our time and beyond. His legacy of peace and solidarity will remain an enduring example.”
Other clubs are expected to follow suit, with moments of silence and commemorative gestures likely to be observed during upcoming fixtures. The Vatican has yet to release details regarding the Pope’s funeral, but a national day of mourning is anticipated in Italy.
As the world reflects on the life and influence of Pope Francis, Serie A’s decision to pause in recognition of his death highlights the unifying power of both faith and sport in times of collective grief.
