Inter meet Pope Leo, fans then join Lazio boycott | OneFootball

Inter’s build-up to facing Lazio has been anything but routine, with a Vatican audience followed by a fan boycott expected to quieten the Stadio Olimpico for the 17.00 UK time kick-off, 18.00 CEST.

According to Football Italia, the entire squad joined coach Cristian Chivu and president Beppe Marotta to meet Pope Leo XIV, presenting him with a special Inter shirt bearing his name.

The pontiff described it as a joyful moment earned through hard work, teamwork, discipline and perseverance, urged the players to reflect and to serve as role models for young people, and recalled Saint John Paul II’s message to Inter representatives 35 years ago about living with authenticity and integrity. He offered his blessing to the squad and their families.

Outside the ground, Inter and Lazio ultras gathered for a joint protest, continuing the home boycott many Lazio fans have maintained for several months against president Claudio Lotito’s stewardship. The two groups have long been twinned, and chose to unite for today’s league match.

The teams meet again at the same venue on Wednesday May 13 in the Coppa Italia Final. Both sets of ultras will be in the stands for that occasion, pausing their protest for a match that could reshape the Aquile’s season.

Source: Football Italia