New guidance issued in a report entitled Giving the Best of Yourself states that Catholics should feel free to play sports on the Sabbath because it "can help integrate a family with other families in the celebration of Sunday".
However, Pope Francis made it clear people shouldn't be over competitive and sports should not interfere with worship.
The document adds: "This does not mean that sport matches should not take place on Sundays, but rather, such events must not excuse families from attending Mass and should also promote the life of the family within the community."
Catholic Tory MP Jacob Rees-Mogg said he doesn't think this new guidance will make a big difference for most Catholics because they are not traditionally strict about the Sabbath.
He told The Times: "I await the ruling on appearing on Sunday morning political shows with eager anticipation."
Stay up to date with the latest news stories from a Christian perspective. Sign up to our daily newsletter and receive more stories like this straight to your inbox every morning.