Pope Francis hails sport’s unifying power ahead of Paris Olympic games

Pope Francis praised the unifying power of sport on Sunday, emphasising its role in bringing together people from different cultures ahead of the upcoming Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Speaking to pilgrims in St. Peter’s Square following his weekly Angelus prayer, the Pope highlighted sport’s ability to foster peace and unity.

“Sport has a great social strength, capable of peacefully uniting people of different cultures,” Pope Francis said. “I hope that this event can be a sign of the inclusive world that we want to build and that the athletes, with their sporting testimony, be messengers of peace and effective models for young people in particular.”

The Pope also reiterated his call for a worldwide truce during the Games, reflecting an ancient tradition where the Olympics served as a period of peace. “According to the ancient tradition, the Olympics are an occasion to establish a truce in wars, demonstrating a sincere desire for peace,” he added.

The Olympic Games are scheduled to run from July 26 to August 11, followed by the Paralympic Games from August 28 to September 8.