FIFA President Gianni Infantino attended Pope Francis’ funeral today and announced that the global football body will organise a charity game in September to honour the late Pontifex, who died on Easter Monday aged 88.
“In our last meeting, a couple of months ago, we discussed organising a game for the kids featuring world legends to unite his passion for football and promote unity among young people,” Infantino told Sky TG 24 on Saturday.
“We thought about playing this game in September, and at this point, we’ll surely do it to honour his memory, uniting the best football legends.”
Infantino was speaking from St. Peter’s Square, where he attended Pope Francis’ funeral.
“It was a special relationship, also between Pope Francis and football. He was a big football fan,” continued Infantino.
“The emotion this morning was unique. So many people from different parts of the world, united by Pope Francis, just like world leaders.
“Sports and football, in particular, are a lesson for life. You learn how to get along with others and how to respect the rules. You learn how to win and lose. Even if you are sad after a defeat, you know there will be a new game, so you learn how to bounce back.
“First of all, football is about inclusivity. At FIFA, there are 211 countries, more than in the United Nations.
“There is an immediate meeting between people from different worlds around a football. Occasions like the World Cup allow fans and teams to reunite in peace and harmony, surrounded by a very positive atmosphere.”
