Pope Leo the 14th received this Saturday (May 9, 2026), at the Vatican, directors and players from Inter Milan, the 2026 Italian champion. During the meeting, the pontiff stated that athletes must be “witnesses to values” and highlighted the influence of football on young people.
Leão 14 congratulated the team, managers, coaches and fans on winning the Italian Championship. According to the pope, the title was the result of “commitment, teamwork, discipline and perseverance”.
“Many young people look to you as their ‘heroes’, as models to be imitated, and this gives them a responsibility that goes beyond performance”, declared the pontiff.
Pope receives Inter t-shirt
The pope also cited a speech by John Paul II made around 35 years ago during a meeting with representatives of Inter Milan. On that occasion, the then pontiff asked players and managers to demonstrate “authenticity and righteousness.”
At the end of the audience, Leão 14 gave a blessing to the players, family members and members of the Italian delegation.
