Vatican City: Pope Leo has sent a heartfelt message marking the arrival of the Athletes’ Cross for the upcoming Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, emphasizing the power of sport to foster fraternity, understanding, and global harmony. The telegram, signed by the Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin, was addressed to Archbishop Mario Delpini of Milan.
The Pope conveyed his spiritual closeness to participants gathering at the Church of San Babila in Milan, where the Athletes’ Cross will be received and remain throughout the Games, scheduled from February 6 to 22. The celebration at the church, presided over by Archbishop Delpini, formally welcomes this symbolic cross, which represents the unity and shared values of athletes worldwide.
In his message, Pope Leo highlighted sport as a vehicle for cultivating friendship and fraternity among people. He expressed his hope that the Milan–Cortina Games would awaken a deeper appreciation for the integral development of the human person, fostering not only physical excellence but also moral and spiritual growth.
The Pope further encouraged that the spirit of healthy competition at the Olympics serve a higher purpose: building bridges between nations, cultures, and communities. “May these Games promote welcome, solidarity, and peace,” he wrote, underscoring the role of sport in uniting humanity and transcending divisions.
Among the concelebrants at the Mass will be Bishop Paul Tighe, Secretary of the Dicastery for Culture and Education, and Father Michele Gianola, Undersecretary of the Italian Bishops’ Conference (CEI) and acting Director of the National Office for the Pastoral Care of Leisure, Tourism, and Sport. Their presence emphasizes the Church’s commitment to supporting initiatives where sport, culture, and human values intersect.
Through this symbolic gesture, Pope Leo reaffirmed the Vatican’s vision of sport not merely as competition but as a powerful platform for dialogue, friendship, and peace, echoing a universal call for understanding and solidarity across all borders.