A football-loving Pope with a divisive opinion

In a 2023 interview, Pope Francis, a devoted supporter of San Lorenzo, was asked the classic question: Messi or Maradona? His response shocked many: “I’ll add a third one. Pelé.” By doing so, he placed the Brazilian icon ahead of Argentina’s two biggest legends—players he also deeply admired.

The statement was controversial in Argentina, where Maradona holds god-like status. Still, the Pope didn’t hold back: “Maradona was a great player, but he failed as a person. He surrounded himself with people who cheered him but never helped him.” He recalled that the No. 10 visited him in 2014, but sadly, his life had a tragic end—like many athletes who lack real support.

Respect for Messi, admiration for Pelé

Speaking about the Brazilian star, the Pope said: “Among the three, the true gentleman is Pelé. A man with a huge heart. I spoke with him once on a plane to Buenos Aires. He had incredible humanity.” Despite favoring Pelé, he also praised Messi, calling him “very well-mannered, a true gentleman.”

However, he made it clear that saying Messi is “God” is an exaggeration: “In theory, it’s blasphemy. I don’t believe it. People say things like that to mean ‘I adore you.’ It’s just a popular way of speaking. It’s a joy to watch him play, but he’s not God.”

A legacy tied to the beautiful game

Throughout his papacy, which began in 2013, Pope Francis used football as a symbol of peace and unity. He organized the “Match for Peace” on three occasions (2014, 2016, and 2022) at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome, bringing together stars like Messi, Maradona, Francesco Totti, Gianluigi Buffon, and Samuel Eto’o.

In 2014, Maradona gifted him an Argentina jersey with his name and the number 10. Later, the football legend called him “a phenomenon” and “a fantastic Pope.”

In 2019, after receiving the struggling Italian national team, the Pope delivered one of his most famous lines: “Even with a rag ball, miracles can happen.” Just two years later, Italy lifted the Euro 2020 trophy at Wembley.

Pope Francis’ connection to football will forever be remembered. His passion, humility, and love for the game made him not only a spiritual leader, but also a true fan of the world’s most popular sport.