Cardinal Vesco Completes Rome Marathon, Calls Running ‘A Way to Be with God’
Rome, March 22, 2026 – Cardinal Jean-Paul Vesco, the Archbishop of Algiers, successfully completed the Rome Marathon, crossing the finish line as the sole cardinal among the participants. The 64-year-old cardinal, running with the Athletica Vaticana team, expressed his profound connection between his faith and his passion for running.
A Unique Participant: Cardinal Vesco’s Journey
Cardinal Vesco, born in 1962, has been an avid runner since childhood. His participation in the Rome Marathon drew significant attention, not only for his ecclesiastical role but also for his personal philosophy on the sport. “I’ve been running since I was a child. For me, running is a joy, it’s a way to be with God,” stated the cardinal after completing the race.
His presence underscored the growing intersection of faith and sport, particularly within the Vatican. Athletica Vaticana, the official athletic association of the Holy See, aims to promote sport as a means of personal growth and interfaith dialogue. Cardinal Vesco’s involvement highlights the organization’s mission to engage with the wider community through athletic endeavors.
The Rome Marathon: A Global Event
The Rome Marathon, an annual event, attracts thousands of runners from around the world, taking them through the historic streets of the Eternal City. Participants pass by iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Roman Forum, making it one of the most picturesque marathons globally. The 2026 edition, held on March 22, saw a diverse field of athletes, from elite professionals to amateur enthusiasts, all sharing the common goal of completing the challenging 42.195-kilometer course.
The event is not only a test of physical endurance but also a celebration of community and shared human experience. The atmosphere along the route is typically vibrant, with spectators cheering on the runners, providing encouragement and support. For many, completing the Rome Marathon is a significant personal achievement, often pursued for charitable causes or as a testament to personal resilience.
Athletica Vaticana: Bridging Faith and Sport
Athletica Vaticana, established in 2019, is recognized as an official member of the Italian Athletics Federation. It comprises employees of the Holy See and Vatican City State, as well as priests, religious sisters, and lay people. The association participates in various sporting events, from marathons to track and field competitions, promoting values such as fraternity, inclusion, and solidarity.
Cardinal Vesco’s participation serves as an inspiring example of how individuals from all walks of life, including religious leaders, can embrace physical activity as a means of personal well-being and spiritual reflection. His words, “a way to be with God,” resonate with many who find solace and connection in the rhythm and discipline of running.
The cardinal’s completion of the marathon adds a unique dimension to the event’s narrative, emphasizing that the pursuit of physical challenges can also be a path to deeper spiritual understanding and connection. His message is a reminder that faith can be integrated into all aspects of life, including strenuous physical activities.
The Rome Marathon continues to be a significant event on the international sporting calendar, and the participation of figures like Cardinal Vesco further enriches its cultural and spiritual tapestry.
