Camilla Jessen
Pope Leo XIV stressed the importance of sport for society in his Angelus address.
Pope Leo XIV spoke about the value of sport during his Angelus address at the Vatican on Sunday, DPA reported, citing Agerpres.
In his speech, the Pope addressed how sport can play a positive role in society, not only through physical performance but also by bringing people together.
Sport as a Tool for Peace
“Sport can become an important way of reconciliation and encounter: between people, within communities, schools, workplaces and families,” the pope said.
The address took place at the end of the Jubilee of Sports, one of the events celebrating the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year in 2025.
Pope Leo XIV emphasized that sport promotes peace because it teaches respect and fairness.
He called on the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square to uphold these values and reject all forms of violence and repression.
Learning to Lose
In his message, the pontiff noted that modern society often rewards only the strongest.
However, sport teaches people how to handle loss, helping them face personal weaknesses and limitations.
This experience, he said, is important because it gives people hope.
Pope Leo XIV is known for his interest in sports.
In one of his first private audiences, he met Italian tennis player Jannik Sinner.
He also welcomed the SS Napoli football team to the Vatican and blessed cyclists taking part in the 108th edition of the Giro d’Italia.