Pope Leo XIV welcomed Serie A champions Inter Milan to the Vatican on Saturday, using a private audience to urge the squad to recognize the responsibility they carry as role models for young fans.
According to the Associated Press, Inter’s players, staff, and club executives met with the new pontiff in a private session at the Vatican. The meeting took place before the team’s away league match against Lazio later that evening. Inter president Giuseppe Marotta presented the Pope with a custom jersey featuring the number 10 and the name “LEONE XIV.”
Inter secured their 20th Serie A title last Sunday with a 2–0 home victory over Parma, clinching the championship with three games to spare. The win marked a successful title defense after winning the league the previous season.
“This is undoubtedly a moment of great joy for all of you, and I am happy to share it with you,” Pope Leo XIV said during the meeting. He then reminded the players: “As I congratulate you, I invite you to reflect on your experience, so that at this moment of success, you may become particularly beneficial transmitters of messages for the growth of young people.”
The Pope emphasized that many young people view footballers as “heroes” and urged the team to keep that responsibility in mind. “I want to stress this, because today’s young people truly need role models, and your actions can have a positive or negative impact on their lives,” he added. “Therefore, I sincerely leave you with this reflection on great responsibility.”
Inter has dominated Serie A this season, winning the title early to give the squad more preparation time for the remaining fixtures and upcoming competitions.