Lionel Messi vs Diego Maradona vs Pele: Who Is The Football GOAT According To Pope Francis?

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Pope Francis, the 266th Bishop of Rome and the first Pope from the Americas, passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88.

Renowned not just for his spiritual leadership but also for his deep connection with football, the late pontiff was an ardent supporter of Argentine club San Lorenzo and carried his fandom with humility throughout his papacy.

Despite hailing from the land of football greats like Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi, Pope Francis surprised many with his choice when asked who he believed was the greatest footballer of all time. In a 2023 interview with Italian broadcaster Rai 1, after Messi clinched his record 8th Ballon d'Or, the Pope candidly expressed his admiration for the Brazilian legend Pelé.

"Maradona was great as a player, but as a man, he failed," Francis said, reflecting on the troubled life of the late Argentine icon. "The poor man slipped, with an entourage that praised him but didn't help him. He came to see me during the first year of my pontificate. Then, unfortunately, he died."

On Messi, the Pope was respectful and appreciative: "Messi is a gentleman," he remarked, acknowledging the composure and humility of the global superstar.

But it was Pelé who truly won his heart. "Among these three, the greatest is Pelé. He was a man with a very big heart. I spoke with him, met him on a plane in Buenos Aires, and he was a man of great humanity."

For Pope Francis, greatness on the football pitch wasn't just about goals or trophies-it was about the person beyond the player. Pelé, revered not only for his historic achievements in football but also for his contributions to social causes and humanity, represented the ideal blend of excellence and empathy in the Pope's eyes.

As the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, his unexpected but heartfelt football verdict will be remembered fondly by fans across the globe-highlighting once again how deeply football can transcend even the highest spiritual office.