In a solemn turn of events, all scheduled matches across Italian football leagues were postponed on Monday, April 21, 2025, following the death of Pope Francis. The FIGC (Italian Football Federation) and Lega Serie A made the announcement, marking a day of mourning for the nation and the football community.
The matches affected in Serie A included the highly anticipated clashes: Torino vs. Udinese, Cagliari vs. Fiorentina, Genoa vs. Lazio, and Parma vs. Juventus. These matches were initially set to conclude the 33rd round of the championship but will now be rescheduled for Wednesday, April 23, 2025, at 18:30.
Notably, only Fiorentina among the teams involved is still competing in European competitions, which adds to the tight scheduling as they navigate both domestic and international commitments. The Serie B matches, which were also slated for April 21, are now postponed to Tuesday, May 13, 2025, as confirmed by the league assembly.
In total, ten matches from the 34th round of Serie B were affected, including fixtures such as Sudtirol vs. Bari, Brescia vs. Reggiana, and Cittadella vs. Salernitana. The decision to delay these matches was made with a large consensus among club representatives, who cited logistical complications for clubs and fans due to the holiday period.
Additionally, ten matches from Group B of Serie C were postponed, all of which will be played on the same day as the Serie A matches on April 23, starting at 18:00. The matches include Arezzo vs. Lucchese and Gubbio vs. Milan Futuro, among others.
Meanwhile, Serie D had already completed its 36th round prior to the Easter holiday and is set to return for its 37th round on the weekend of April 27, 2025. The Primavera 1 championship also saw disruptions, with three matches postponed: Roma vs. Udinese, Monza vs. Sassuolo, and Sampdoria vs. Torino.
The official statement from Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A emphasized the gravity of the situation: "Following the passing of the Holy Father, the Lega Nazionale Professionisti Serie A announces that the matches scheduled for today in Serie A and Primavera 1 are postponed." This acknowledgment reflects the profound impact of Pope Francis's death on the Italian populace and the sporting world.
As the football community mourns, the rescheduling of matches ensures that teams can refocus on their campaigns while honoring the memory of a significant figure in Italian society. The league's response showcases its sensitivity to cultural and emotional contexts, ensuring that the spirit of the game remains respectful and solemn during these times.
With the new dates set, fans are encouraged to stay informed about the rescheduled fixtures and any further updates from their respective clubs. The anticipation for the matches is already building, as teams prepare to return to the pitch amidst a backdrop of reflection and respect.
In summary, the postponement of matches across Serie A, Serie B, and Serie C highlights the profound impact of Pope Francis's passing on the Italian football landscape. As the leagues prepare for the rescheduled dates, fans and players alike will look to honor his legacy through the beautiful game.
