Serie A Matches Postponed After Pope Francis’ Death

The Italian Serie A has announced the postponement of all matches that were originally scheduled for Monday, April 21st, following the death of Pope Francis.

The Vatican confirmed his passing earlier this morning, and it quickly prompted a wave of tributes across the world. It also triggered a nationwide pause in sporting activities as a mark of respect for the spiritual leader.

The decision was confirmed by Serie A, and it impacts four fixtures: Torino vs. Udinese, Cagliari vs. Fiorentina, Genoa vs. Lazio, and Parma vs. Juventus. These matches are now rescheduled for Wednesday, April 23rd — alongside the Coppa Italia semi-final between Inter Milan and AC Milan, which will proceed as planned.

Pope Francis was the first-ever Latin American pope and a lifelong football enthusiast. He was a cherished figure in Italy and beyond. He was a lifelong supporter of the Argentine club San Lorenzo, and after Francis was elected Pope and the club won the Copa Libertadores for the first time in 2014, club officials traveled to the Vatican to give tribute to Francis.

Following his death, football clubs in Italy and beyond expressed their grief through online tributes. AS Roma described the loss as one that “deeply saddens our city and the entire world,” while San Lorenzo said, “he will never leave our hearts.” Legendary Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Buffon said on Instagram: “I will carry his example forever in my heart.”

The Italian Olympic Committee (CONI) also called for the suspension of all sporting events on Monday.