Pope Leo XIV Calls Sport a Path to Peace and Urges Respect for Olympic Truce Ahead of Winter Games

On the eve of the opening ceremony of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in northern Italy, Pope Leo XIV has released a letter highlighting the deep human and social value of sport, while renewing his appeal for respect for the Olympic Truce. The letter, titled Life in Abundance, was made public by the Vatican just hours before the start of the 2026 Winter Olympics, which take place from 6 to 22 February, followed by the Paralympic Games in March.

In the message, the Pope extends his greetings to athletes, organizers, and all those involved in the Olympic and Paralympic events, while inviting the wider global community to reflect on the role of sport in today’s fractured world. He describes sport as a powerful expression of human fraternity and a space where values such as discipline, respect, and solidarity can be lived authentically.

Pope Leo recalls that throughout the history of the Olympic Games, his predecessors consistently underlined the importance of sport in promoting peace and understanding among nations. He notes with appreciation that the Olympic Truce has once again been proposed by the International Olympic Committee and supported by the United Nations General Assembly as a concrete symbol of hope in times of conflict.

In a world marked by violence, instability, and growing polarization, the Pope stresses that humanity urgently needs instruments capable of challenging the abuse of power, indifference to justice, and reliance on force. He warns that aggression, violence, and war always represent a defeat for humanity, contributing to what he describes as a culture of death that erodes trust and dignity.

Against this backdrop, Pope Leo strongly encourages all nations participating in the Winter Games to rediscover and honor the Olympic Truce. He describes it not merely as a symbolic gesture, but as a promise pointing toward a reconciled world, where dialogue and mutual respect replace confrontation.

The Pope also reflects on the Church’s responsibility within the world of sport. He emphasizes the importance of pastoral presence and accompaniment, encouraging the Church to walk alongside athletes, coaches, and sporting communities. He points to Athletica Vaticana, established in 2018 as the official sports association of the Holy See under the Dicastery for Culture and Education, as an example of how sport can be lived as an expression of ecclesial service.

According to Pope Leo, sport should be a school of life, teaching that fulfillment does not come from victory at any cost, but from sharing, respecting others, and finding joy in walking together. He stresses that this message applies not only to elite competition but also, and especially, to grassroots sport, which often lacks resources yet remains rich in human relationships and social impact.

At the same time, the Pope cautions against reducing sport to a spectacle or commercial product. He warns of the risks of exploiting athletic competition for political agendas or financial gain, urging instead that sport remain faithful to its deeper mission of serving personal growth and the common good.

As the world turns its attention to Milan and Cortina, Pope Leo’s message offers a reminder that sport, when lived with integrity, can become a powerful force for peace, unity, and hope, capable of inspiring humanity beyond medals and podiums.