Napoli’s Serie A triumph received a special papal seal of approval on Tuesday as Pope Leo XIV graciously hosted the victorious champions at the Vatican, marking a memorable occasion for both the club and its supporters.
The Pope delivered warm and encouraging words, alongside a few lighthearted laughs, during a celebratory audience held in honor of Napoli’s incredible achievement.
Coming fresh off their dramatic and hard-fought fourth Scudetto title, which was secured by a narrow 2-0 win over Cagliari, Napoli’s delegation, led by their captain Giovanni Di Lorenzo and esteemed manager Antonio Conte, were warmly received in Rome. This visit came just a day after the team’s jubilant open-top bus parade through the city streets, which was met with exuberant cheers from thousands of fans.
Pope Leo, who is notably the first pontiff hailing from the United States and a recognized sports enthusiast, greeted the squad with genuine warmth and friendliness. In a moment of humor, he quipped to the gathered audience and team members:
“The press says I am an AS Roma fan, but you are very welcome! Not everything you read in the press is true.”
The jovial remark drew laughter and applause from those present, underscoring the good-natured spirit of the encounter.
During the visit, Napoli’s chairman Aurelio De Laurentiis presented Pope Leo with a specially made Napoli jersey featuring the iconic No. 10, emblazoned with the words “Papa Leone XIV,” humorously calling him “a great striker.” The Pope accepted the gift with a chuckle and a gracious “thank you,” appreciating the thoughtful gesture.
Manager Antonio Conte, who was described by De Laurentiis as “deeply Catholic,” respectfully knelt and kissed the pontiff’s hand. In response, Pope Leo remarked with a smile that he had often seen Conte on television, acknowledging the manager’s prominence in the world of football.
In his heartfelt remarks to the team, Pope Leo emphasized the core values of teamwork, perseverance, and the educational power of sport, saying:
“The championship is won by the team… not by one champion’s brilliance alone, but by everyone working together — players, the coach, and the entire club.”
This event not only celebrated Napoli’s remarkable victory but also highlighted the unifying power of sport and the importance of collective effort both on and off the field.