Pope calls sporting activity “a worthwhile educational instrument”

Vatican City, Jan 16, 2005 / 22:00 pm

This morning at the Vatican, the Pope received the president, management, drivers and technicians of the Italian car manufacturer Ferrari, whom he congratulated on their victory in the recent world championships.

Recalling that they had come to present him with a model of a Formula One racing car, the Holy Father said: "Your presence gives me the opportunity to underline how important sport is, also for modern society.”

The Church considers sporting activity, practiced in full respect for the rules, to be a worthwhile educational instrument, especially for the young generations."

John Paul II highlighted the "enthusiasm deriving from community spirit" that was chiefly responsible for Ferrari's "notable sporting and industrial achievements."

He urged them to "continue to cultivate this approach to your work, and make constant growth in solidarity one of your principal objectives. In this way you will disseminate the values of sport and, at the same time, contribute to building a more just and united society."