Argentina Halts Football to Mourn Pope Francis

TDT | Manama

Email: hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

A Nation in Mourning

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has postponed all scheduled football matches for Monday, following the passing of Pope Francis, a passionate fan of the beautiful game and lifelong supporter of San Lorenzo de Almagro. The Pope, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, passed away on Monday at the age of 88. As the first Latin American pontiff and a towering figure in both spiritual and sporting circles, his death has sent waves of emotion across Argentina and the world.

“Argentine football says goodbye to you wrapped in deep sorrow,” the AFA declared in an official statement, honoring the Pope’s enduring love for football. In his lifetime, Pope Francis met with footballing legends including Lionel Messi and the late Diego Maradona — both icons of Argentine culture. A minute’s silence will be observed across all matches later this week.

A Lifelong Football Fan

Francis’ relationship with football wasn’t symbolic — it was personal. He never hid his unwavering love for San Lorenzo, a Buenos Aires club he supported since childhood. That love of the game made him not just a spiritual leader, but a relatable figure to millions of fans across the globe.

Emotional Tributes

Lionel Messi paid heartfelt tribute on Instagram: “A different pope, close to us, Argentinean. Pope Francis. Thank you for making the world a better place. We are going to miss you,” wrote the Inter Miami star, alongside a photo from their 2013 meeting.

Farewell to a Footballing Soul

Even in his memoirs, the Pope reflected on the lighter side of football history, recalling Maradona’s infamous "Hand of God" goal with humor and grace. “I asked him, jokingly, 'So, which is the guilty hand?’” he once said of their meeting.
As Argentina pauses its most beloved sport, it also bids farewell to a native son whose faith and football united generations.