The death of Pope Francis, which occurred this Monday at the Vatican at the age of 88, has deeply shocked the Catholic world and Argentine sports. Among the many institutions that expressed their sorrow, the San Lorenzo de Almagro club – a team of which the pontiff was a faithful follower throughout his life – issued a message full of emotion and gratitude to the man they considered “one of their own”.
In its official account on the social network X (formerly Twitter), the club emphasized that “there was something that never changed in his passage from Jorge Bergoglio to Pope Francis: his love for the Ciclón”, using the popular nickname with which the azulgrana team is known. “Cuervo since childhood and until the end,” the message added, referring to the term with which San Lorenzo fans are identified. Francisco, whose membership number was 88235, never hid his passion for soccer. As archbishop of Buenos Aires, he was often seen attending matches at the old Gasómetro stadium. Later, as pope, he received club delegations at the Vatican, blessed jerseys, shared moments with players and officials, and celebrated with special joy the team’s greatest achievement: the 2014 Copa Libertadores.
Reactions from Argentine soccer
The Argentine Soccer Association(AFA) declared a national soccer duel and suspended all matches scheduled for this Monday.
In an official statement, the entity expressed its sorrow for the loss of “the spiritual leader of millions and a fervent lover of Argentine soccer”.
“Pope Francis dedicated his life to the Church, but he never stopped being part of the soul of soccer.”
His love for San Lorenzo was sincere and constant
AFA
The matches were rescheduled for Tuesday, except for the match between Argentinos Juniors and Barracas Central, which will be played at 19:00 hours (22:00 GMT).
Impact for Hispanics
Buzzy
For the Hispanic Catholic community in the United States, and in particular for Argentines residing in the country, the death of Pope Francis represents the loss of a close, authentic and deeply human figure.
His pontificate was not only distinguished by his simplicity and commitment to the most vulnerable.
But also for their ability to keep their cultural roots alive.
Among them, his passion for soccer and for San Lorenzo de Almagro.
The fact that the first Latin American pope was an avowed supporter of a popular club, such as San Lorenzo, made him an accessible and approachable spiritual leader for millions.
For Hispanic migrants, who often struggle to preserve their identity in a different environment, seeing Francis celebrate their faith without giving up their culture – or their sporting passions – was a powerful reminder that the two can coexist.
For more information, visit QueOnnda.com.
