Inter Milan’s high-profile clash with Roma has been postponed following the death of Pope Francis, whose funeral will take place this Saturday. Serie A confirmed on Tuesday that three weekend fixtures will be rescheduled to observe the national mourning declared by the Italian government.
Pope Francis, the leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics, died aged 88 on Monday after suffering a stroke at his home in Vatican City. The announcement triggered a five-day period of national mourning, prompting Italy’s Olympic Committee (CONI) to request that all sporting events scheduled for Saturday be suspended.
Which Serie A Matches Were Postponed?
The following matches have been rescheduled:
- Inter Milan vs AS Roma – moved to Sunday at 1300 GMT
- Como vs Genoa – rescheduled to Sunday at 1030 GMT
- Lazio vs Parma – pushed to Monday to avoid congestion in Rome
Lazio’s match at the Stadio Olimpico was particularly sensitive due to its proximity to Vatican City. The Prati and Della Vittoria districts, which lie between the stadium and the Vatican, are known for traffic chaos on matchdays, and authorities wanted to avoid potential security and logistical issues during the papal funeral.
Impact on Inter Milan’s Busy Schedule
The schedule change is particularly challenging for Inter Milan, who are chasing a historic Serie A, Champions League, and Italian Cup treble. Inter are currently level on points with Napoli at the top of the table and face a hectic period ahead.
With already 50 matches played this season, Inter are bracing for at least 11 more games due to the revamped Club World Cup set to take place in the United States later this year. They also face arch-rivals AC Milan in the Italian Cup semi-final second leg, with Barcelona awaiting in the Champions League.
CONI’s National Sporting Directive
The Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI) instructed all federations to observe the national mourning, requesting a minute of silence at all sporting events held during the mourning period.
Serie A also announced that four additional matches originally slated for next Monday will now be played on Wednesday at 1830 local time (1630 GMT). One of those includes Juventus’ crucial clash at Parma as the Turin side continues its push for Champions League qualification.
What’s Next?
While football pauses to honor one of the most influential global religious figures, Serie A’s title race and European spots remain delicately poised. Inter’s clash with Roma, now on Sunday, could prove decisive as they battle Napoli for the Scudetto.
Category: Serie A 2024/25, Football News, Inter Milan, Vatican News, Sports & Society
Tags: Inter Milan, Roma, Pope Francis, Serie A, Italy mourning, Vatican, Football postponements, CONI, Serie A 2025, Luis Enrique
