Visiting Spain until next Saturday, Pope Leo XIV did not escape the essential football question. Asked in Madrid about his preference between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona, the sovereign pontiff replied mischievously: “The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost is for Real Madrid”in reference to his birth name, Robert Francis Prevost. A nod which should delight Merengue supporters, as he must take part in a large gathering at the Santiago-Bernabéu stadium.
A few days before the start of the 2026 World Cup in North America, Leo XIV also revealed his colors on the international scene. “I will definitely support the United States, although I am not sure I will be able to watch many matches”confided the Pope, holder of American and Peruvian nationalities. A logical choice since Peru did not qualify for the World Cup.
