Pope stays neutral for Germany-Italy soccer game

June 28, 2012

Pope Benedict XVI will remain neutral when his native Germany challenges Italy in the semifinal round of the Euro Cup soccer competition on June 28, the Pope’s spokesman told reporters.

Msgr. Georg Ganswein, the Pope’s private secretary, will be cheering for Germany, said Father Federico Lombardi, the director of the Vatican press office. All the other members of the pontifical household will be rooting for Italy.

For Pope Benedict, who is not known for his interest in sports, neutrality may not be a burden. “Personally I don’t think the Pope will watch the match,” Father Lombardi said.

 

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Further information:

• Pope ‘impartial’ on Germany-Italy match, but Maltese secretary to support Italy (Malta Today)