Pope to World Cup: Overcome Racism, Greed in Sport

VATICAN CITY AP - Pope Francis has a message for the World Cup: Let football be a showcase for teamwork and solidarity, not an exhibition of racism and greed.

The Argentine-born, football-loving pope recorded a video message that will be broadcast on Brazilian television ahead of Thursday's opening match. In it, Francis said football teaches three lessons that can promote peace and solidarity: the need to train and work hard to reach goals, the importance of fair play and teamwork, and the need to respect and honor opponents.

He said: "To win, one must overcome individualism, selfishness, all forms of racism, intolerance and manipulation of people.'' He said being ``greedy'' in football, as in life, is an obstacle.

"Let nobody turn their back on society and feel excluded!'' he said. ``No to segregation! No to racism!''