Infantino bade farewell to Pope Francis with a moving message

After the passing of Pope Francis, reactions quickly came from all corners of the globe. Among them, the heartfelt message from Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, stood out, who expressed his sorrow through his social media and recalled the influence Jorge Mario Bergoglio had in the world of sports.

"I am deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. I had the privilege of spending time with him on a couple of occasions, where he always shared his enthusiasm for soccer and highlighted the important role our sport plays in society, particularly regarding the education and protection of children around the world," wrote Infantino on his Instagram account.

The post was accompanied by several images showing him with the Supreme Pontiff over these nearly twelve years of papacy.

The Swiss leader added: "I know how important he was for the Catholic community worldwide as a leader of the Church. Through the message of hope and peace he conveyed yesterday, Easter Sunday, he set a good example, and my deepest condolences to all who knew him, his community, his family, and his friends. The prayers of the entire soccer world are with him. May he rest in peace."

Their last meeting took place earlier this year during the World Leaders Summit on Children's Rights, held in the Vatican. On that occasion, Francis "reiterated his hope that soccer can be a global unifying force and a positive impetus for good."

The IOC President also bid farewell

Thomas Bach, president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), also spoke, emphasizing that with Francis's departure, a great friend and advocate of the Olympic Movement is lost. "His support for the peace and solidarity mission of the Olympic Games and the numerous IOC initiatives in favor of refugees has been unwavering," wrote the German leader, who will leave his position at the head of the organization to Zimbabwean Kirsty Coventry.

In 2024, on the eve of the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Pope sent a message reaffirming his view of sports as a transformative tool. "To build bridges and foster peaceful relationships," he expressed. Additionally, he stated that it is a "formidable ally in building peace" and a vehicle to "overcome adversities and as an essential pillar for the youth."

Beyond his well-known love for San Lorenzo de Almagro, Pope Francis will also be remembered for being a fervent advocate of sports as a driver of unity and social progress. His legacy, in that sense, transcends fields and stadiums.