Eye on the horizon ... Pope Francis says he will not still be in the Vatican in ten years time. Picture: AFP Source: AFP

Greeting athletes and officials from the Italian National Olympic Committee on Friday, the Pope wished them well with their bid to host the 2024 Games, but said he would not be around to watch them. He recently celebrated his 78th birthday.

“Dear friends, best wishes for Rome’s bid to host the 2024 Olympic Games,” he said. “I will not be there. May the Lord bless all of you and your families.”

RELATED: Pope’s birthday treat for homeless

RELATED: Couples tango for Pope’s birthday

Celebration ... Pope Francis turned 78 on Wednesday. Picture: AP Photo/L'Osservatore Romano Source: AP

It was not the first time the Pope has hinted he does not think he will last very long at the helm of the Catholic Church.

On his way back from South Korea in August he lightheartedly remarked to reporters that he may have only two or three years left to live.

Responding to a question about how he deals with his astonishing global popularity, he replied: “I try to think of my sins, my mistakes, not to become proud. Because I know this will last a short time, two or three years, and then I’ll be off to the house of the Father”.

Blessings ... Pope Francis meets with Catholic groups during a private audience at the Vatican. Picture: AP Photo/L' Osservatore Romano Source: AP

The Argentinian pontiff has also stated that he could retire if his health fails, as his predecessor Benedict XVI did last year in what was the first voluntary papal resignation in more than 700 years.

Previous pope ... Pope Benedict XVI (pictured with Fidel Castro in 2012) retired last year. Picture: AP Photo/Osservatore Romano Source: AP