Micah Jonah
February 1, 2026
Pope Leo has called on world leaders to use the upcoming Milano Cortina Winter Olympics as an opportunity to promote peace and global dialogue, urging those in positions of authority to take concrete steps towards de-escalation and reconciliation.
The Pope made the appeal on Sunday after his weekly Angelus prayer at the Vatican, as Milan and the Alpine resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo prepare to co host the Winter Games scheduled to run from February 6 to 22.
He said major international sporting events such as the Olympic Games carry a powerful message of fraternity and unity, with the potential to rekindle hope for a more peaceful world.
Recalling the ancient tradition of the Olympic truce, Pope Leo noted that the Games have historically served as a moment when hostilities are paused in the spirit of mutual respect and coexistence.
He expressed hope that leaders who care about peace among peoples would seize the occasion of the Olympic Games to take deliberate steps towards easing tensions, encouraging dialogue.
According to him, the symbolism of the Olympic truce remains relevant in today’s world, where conflicts and divisions continue to threaten global stability.
The Pope’s remarks came shortly after he inaugurated a new mosaic of the Virgin Mary and a statue of the 16th century Saint Rose of Lima during a ceremony held in the Vatican Gardens.
He reaffirmed that sport, beyond competition, has the capacity to unite nations, foster understanding and remind humanity of shared values rooted in peace, solidarity and respect.
