FIFA President Gianni Infantino has paid tribute to Pope Francis following the pontiff’s passing on April 21, describing him as a “friend of football” and a leader whose belief in the sport’s unifying power resonated across the globe.
“I am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pope Francis,” Infantino said in a heartfelt statement. “I was privileged enough to spend some time with him on a couple of occasions, and he always shared his enthusiasm for football and stressed the important role our sport plays in society, in particular in relation to educating and safeguarding children all around the world.”
Infantino recalled the Pope’s memorable words: “Football is the most beautiful sport in the world.”
Their shared vision was once again evident earlier this year at the World Leaders Summit on Children’s Rights held in the Vatican, where Pope Francis reaffirmed his belief in football as a force for good—a tool to bring people together and to foster hope, unity, and peace.
Recognising Pope Francis’ global influence beyond the football world, Infantino extended condolences to the Catholic Church and its followers.
“I know how much he meant to the Catholic community as the leader of their church worldwide,” he said. “Through the message of hope and peace that he provided as recently as yesterday on Easter Sunday, he led by example.”
Infantino concluded by offering prayers on behalf of the football community: “My sincere condolences go to all those who knew him, his community, family and friends. All the prayers of the whole football world are with him. May he rest in peace.”