All four Serie A matches scheduled for Easter Monday were postponed following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday morning at the age of 88.
The Vatican confirmed that the pontiff died after suffering a cerebral stroke, which left him in a coma and ultimately caused irreversible heart failure.
Pope Francis, who became the head of the Catholic Church in 2013, was widely recognised for his humility, inclusive vision, and efforts to modernise the Church. A conclave of cardinals will convene in the coming days to elect his successor.
The Italian Football Federation announced the postponement of Monday’s fixtures—Torino v Udinese, Cagliari v Fiorentina, Genoa v Lazio, and Parma v Juventus—as a mark of respect. The matches will now be played on Wednesday, 23 April, with all kick-offs scheduled for 17:30 BST.
The decision comes on Easter Monday, a national holiday in Italy, adding to the weight of the day’s solemnity.
A passionate football supporter, Pope Francis was a lifelong fan of San Lorenzo, one of Argentina’s most storied clubs. The club paid tribute to their honorary member, writing: “Our hearts ache. Pope Francis has left this world, but he will never leave our hearts.”
He often followed San Lorenzo’s progress from Rome and remained connected to the game throughout his papacy.
The Italian football community joined in mourning. Clubs across the league shared messages of condolence. AS Roma called his death “a loss that deeply saddens our city and the entire world,” praising the Pope’s unwavering faith, humility, and moral leadership.
