Pope Leo XIV is making waves as he reconnects with his sporting roots, and it seems like the two major baseball teams from his hometown are eager for his support.
On Thursday, during the second day of the Papal Conclave discussion, Robert Prevast was elected as the new Pope, marking him as the first pope ever from the United States.
Originating from Chicago, he celebrated his 70th birthday on September 14 and has ties to Villanova University. His connection with the university is likely a source of pride for many, especially New York Knicks fans who fondly remember him as a standout player for the Wildcats.
Given his background, it’s understandable why there’s a buzz around supporting Pope Leo XIV’s alma mater. Furthermore, one can assume he might also engage with iconic Chicago teams like the Bears, Bulls, and Blackhawks.
However, the matter of loyalty between the city’s two Major League Baseball teams—Cubs and White Sox—remains a bit murky. It’s unclear which team captures his true allegiance.
Interestingly, while a Chicago priest mentioned that the Pope is a Cubs supporter, a conflicting statement from the Pope’s brother challenged this claim, as revealed in a Sox video. Photos from the 2005 World Series, featuring the White Sox and the Astros, have also surfaced, suggesting a complicated history.
As the buzz continues, it seems evident that interest in Pope Leo XIV’s college should not be underestimated. He is likely to influence Chicago sports fandom in various ways.
Just a quick note about Pope Leo XIII, who was appointed by Pope Francis to oversee bishop activities back in January 2023 and quickly rose to Cardinal by September of that same year. His earlier years were spent in Peru, making him an intriguing figure as he holds a particular focus on environmental issues, poverty, and inclusivity within the Church community.
Over the last few years, he played a significant role in the Peruvian Bishops’ Conference, serving as vice president from 2018 until his recent move to the Vatican in 2023.
