In the wake of Papa Francis ’ passing at 88, professional football in Italy and Argentina came to a respectful pause. The Serie A schedule for Easter Monday was delayed, shifting key matches like Juventus vs Parma and Lazio vs Genoa to Wednesday.

Over in Argentina, three top-tier games — including Tigre vs Belgrano — were also moved a day ahead, each to begin with a moment of remembrance. The tributes were heartfelt for the first Latin American pope, once known as Archbishop of Buenos Aires.

Papa Francis was no stranger to the pitch. A lifelong fan of San Lorenzo, he famously held their badge after being elected in 2013. The club, nicknamed “the Saints,” plans to name its upcoming stadium in his honor. He even owned a membership card with San Lorenzo — No. 88,235.

Under his papacy, the club found form, clinching the Argentine league in 2013 and lifting their first-ever Copa Libertadores in 2014. Club representatives later visited the Vatican with trophies, thanking their holy supporter.

Across the globe, athletes paid homage. FIFA president Infantino recalled Papa Francis’s passion for football. Tennis legend Rafael Nadal and soccer icons Messi and Buffon expressed admiration for the pope’s values and leadership.

Papa Francis often underlined the social duty of athletes, encouraging them to be positive role models and guard sport against greed and exploitation.