In a significant gesture of respect, Italy’s Serie A has rescheduled several fixtures to accommodate the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88. The funeral is set to take place on Saturday, April 26, at 10:00 AM in St. Peter’s Square, Rome.
The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI), following directives from the government, has suspended all sporting events on the day of the funeral. Consequently, three Serie A matches initially scheduled for Saturday have been moved:
- Inter Milan vs. AS Roma: Originally set for Saturday, this pivotal match will now kick off on Sunday at 3:00 PM local time. Despite being granted an exception to play on Saturday to better prepare for their upcoming Champions League semi-final against Barcelona, Inter Milan declined the offer out of respect for the late pontiff.
- Como vs. Genoa: Rescheduled to Sunday at 12:30 PM.
- Lazio vs. Parma: Moved to Monday at 8:45 PM, considering its proximity to the Vatican and the anticipated large gatherings in Rome.
Additionally, matches postponed earlier in the week, including Cagliari vs. Fiorentina, Genoa vs. Lazio, Parma vs. Juventus, and Torino vs. Udinese, have been rescheduled for Wednesday, April 23.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Latin American leader of the Roman Catholic Church and a noted football enthusiast, particularly fond of the Argentine club San Lorenzo . His passing has prompted nationwide mourning, with sports organizations across Italy adjusting schedules to honor his memory.
In line with CONI’s recommendations, a minute of silence will be observed at all sporting events throughout the week to pay tribute to the Pope’s legacy
