Pope Leo XIV Declares Real Madrid Fandom During Spain Visit
During a seven-day visit to Spain starting June 6, 2026, Pope Leo XIV (born Robert Francis Prevost) jokingly revealed his personal preference for Real Madrid over FC Barcelona, stating, "The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost is for Real Madrid." Real Madrid’s president Florentino Pérez welcomed the news, calling it a source of pride. The Pope is scheduled to attend a large vigil at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. He also said he will support the United States in the 2026 World Cup, citing his American and Peruvian nationalities.
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Pope Leo XIV Receives Real Betis-Themed Gift During Spain Visit
During his seven-day pastoral visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV received a gift wrapped in Real Betis-branded paper in Arguineguín, Gran Canaria. The pontiff accepted the present and handed it to an aide while greeting thousands of faithful. The gesture sparked enthusiastic reactions on social media from Betis fans, with comments like 'God is for Betis and now the Pope too.' The visit included stops in Madrid, Barcelona, the Canary Islands, and Tenerife, focusing on migration issues. In Tenerife, the Pope visited the Las Raíces de La Laguna migrant reception center and the historic World Heritage city center to hear migrants' experiences. The article highlights the intersection of sports fandom and papal visit.
FútbolPope Leo XIV: Football teaches that life is played as a team, not a solitary race
During a visit to Barcelona on June 10, 2026, Pope Leo XIV used football as a metaphor for life, stating that life cannot be 'a solitary race' and must be played as a team. Speaking at the Church of Santo Agostinho at a meeting with charitable organizations and vulnerable individuals, the Pope responded to questions from a six-year-old boy named Renzo. The Pope admitted he did not aspire to be Pope but accepted the calling, and shared his personal history with sports, including playing American football as a youth and soccer as a defender during his seminary days in Rome and Peru. He emphasized that sport benefits body, mind, and soul. The remarks came on the eve of the 2026 World Cup hosted by Mexico, the USA, and Canada. The Pope, born in Chicago, previously revealed his personal support for Real Madrid.
RecordFlorentino Pérez Welcomes Pope Leo XIV at Santiago Bernabéu
Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez received Pope Leo XIV at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid on June 8, 2026, ahead of the Pontiff's meeting with the diocesan community. The event marked Robert Prevost's final official gathering in the capital, drawing 80,000 faithful. Pérez, who had just won re-election against Enrique Riquelme, presented the Pope with a white Real Madrid shirt bearing his name and the number 1, as well as a replica of the stadium. The Pope reciprocated with a medal. Notable attendees included Isabel Díaz Ayuso, president of the Community of Madrid; Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida; and Minister of Inclusion, Social Security and Migration Elma Saiz. The Pope is scheduled to travel to Barcelona on Tuesday.
FútbolMassive Meeting of Pope Leo XIV at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium
On June 8, 2026, Pope Leo XIV held a massive meeting with the diocesan community of Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, drawing thousands of faithful. The event was marked by emotion and transformed the football stadium into a space of faith and meditation. The Pope arrived in a popemobile and was accompanied by Cardinal and Archbishop of Madrid, José Cobo. Notable attendees included Spanish Minister of Housing and Urban Agenda Isabel Rodríguez, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, and singer Íñigo Quintero. The gathering was covered by multiple photographers from Europa Press and Reuters, highlighting the large crowd and the spiritual atmosphere.
Fútbol en AS.comPope Leo XIV's First Sentence at Bernabéu Uses Football Metaphor, Delighting Crowd
During a visit to Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu stadium, Pope Leo XIV delivered his first public remarks using a football metaphor that drew laughter from the crowd, including 25 nuns in the stands. The event marked the climax of a 'white feud act' where the president spoke before the Pope. The Pope's entrance was described as viral and reminiscent of Kylian Mbappé's style. The article also references related stories about Mbappé's response to Madridistas and Vinicius. The Pope's visit blended religious and football culture, creating a memorable moment at the iconic stadium.
Feed MRSS-S real_madrid_aReal Madrid launches limited edition León XIV t-shirt for Pope's visit
Real Madrid has launched a limited edition t-shirt inspired by Pope Leo XIV, capitalizing on his visit to Madrid. The shirt, priced at 195 euros, features the name 'León' and number 'XIV' on the back, referencing the Pontiff's chosen name. The initiative follows Leo XIV's public acknowledgment of his sympathy for Real Madrid during his flight from Rome. Club president Florentino Pérez expressed pride in the Pontiff's affinity. The club plans to give the Pope a personalized shirt at an event at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, which will host thousands of faithful. This marks the second papal event at the Bernabéu, after John Paul II's visit in 1982. Fans can also purchase matching pants and socks.
Feed MRSS-S real_madrid_aReal Madrid Sells Limited Edition Shirt with Pope Leo XIV Name for 195 Euros
Real Madrid has put on sale a limited edition t-shirt bearing the name of Pope Leo XIV for 195 euros in its official store. The shirt features 'León' on the top and 'XIV' as the number. This follows the Pope's revelation of his support for the Madrid team. Club president Florentino Pérez is scheduled to present the Pope with a shirt during a meeting at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, which is part of the pontiff's visit to Spain. The event marks the second time a Pope has held an event at the Bernabéu, the first being John Paul II in 1982. Additional items like pants (55 euros) and socks (25 euros) are also available for purchase.
Feed MRSS-S real_madrid_aReal Madrid sells shirt with name of Pope León XIV for 195 euros
Real Madrid has put on sale a limited edition shirt bearing the name of Pope León XIV, priced at 195 euros, after the pontiff revealed his support for the club. Club president Florentino Pérez plans to present the Pope with a personalized shirt during a meeting at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium later today. The event is part of the Pope's visit to Madrid and marks the second time the Bernabéu has hosted a papal gathering, following a 1982 visit by John Paul II. The shirt features 'León' on top and 'XIV' as the number. Additional items like pants (55 euros) and socks (25 euros) are also available. The announcement comes the day after Pérez's re-election victory.
LALIGA EA Sports // marcaReal Madrid sells jersey with Pope Leo XIV name for 195 euros
Real Madrid has put on sale a limited edition jersey bearing the name of Pope Leo XIV, priced at 195 euros, following the pontiff's revelation that he is a fan of the club. Club president Florentino Pérez will personally gift a jersey to the Pope during a meeting at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium this afternoon, which is part of the American pontiff's visit to Madrid. The jersey features 'Leo' at the top and 'XIV' as the number. Additional items like pants (55 euros) and socks (25 euros) are also available. Pérez welcomed the Pope's fandom, calling it a source of pride. This marks the second papal event at the Bernabéu, the first being led by John Paul II in 1982.
LALIGA EA Sports // marcaPope Leo XIV Video Manipulated to Hide He Also Named Atlético Madrid
During Pope Leo XIV's flight from Rome to Madrid on June 8, 2026, a correspondent asked him whether he preferred Real Madrid or Barcelona. The Pope responded, 'That's easy. The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost (his name) is for Real Madrid... and Atlético.' However, a widely circulated video, including one posted by Real Madrid's official X account, cuts off after 14 seconds, omitting the phrase 'and Atlético.' This manipulation sparked outrage among Atlético Madrid fans on social media, who accused the club of selectively editing the Pope's words. The article notes the anecdotal nature of the incident but highlights the controversy over the edited clip.
FútbolTomás Roncero Calls Barcelona a 'Sinful Club' After Pope Leo XIV's Football Preference Remarks
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Madrid on June 6, 2026, for a six-day official visit to Spain. During his arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, a journalist asked the Pontiff whether he preferred Real Madrid or FC Barcelona. The Pope responded diplomatically, stating he belongs to all teams but noted that Cardinal Robert Prevost is a Real Madrid fan. Tomás Roncero, a prominent Real Madrid-supporting journalist, reacted strongly to the Pope's comments in an interview with Diario AS. Roncero claimed Barcelona is a 'sinful club' due to its involvement in the Negreira case, financial 'levers,' and controversial player registrations. He further suggested the Pope likely has a list of Barcelona supporters who need to confess. Roncero argued Real Madrid is a 'clean and pure club' and that the Pope's heart lies with Real Madrid despite being condescending to Barcelona. The Pope will remain in Madrid until June 9 before traveling to Barcelona for scheduled events.
Últimas NoticiasTomás Roncero Calls Barcelona a 'Sinful Club' After Pope Leo XIV's Football Comment
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Madrid on June 6, 2026, for a six-day official visit to Spain. During his arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas airport, a journalist asked the Pontiff whether he supports Real Madrid or FC Barcelona. The Pope responded diplomatically, stating he belongs to all teams but noted that Cardinal Robert Prevost is a Real Madrid fan. Tomás Roncero, a prominent Real Madrid-supporting journalist, reacted strongly to the Pope's comments in an interview with Diario AS. Roncero claimed the Pope cannot support Barcelona because it is a 'sinful club,' citing controversies such as the Negreira case, financial 'levers,' and late player registrations. He further suggested the Pope has a list of Barcelona supporters who need to confess, and argued that Real Madrid is a 'clean and pure club.' The Pope will remain in Madrid until June 9 before traveling to Barcelona for the remainder of his visit.
Últimas NoticiasTomás Roncero Calls Barcelona a 'Sinful Club' After Pope's Remarks
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Madrid on June 6, 2026, for a six-day official visit to Spain. During his arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport, a journalist asked the Pontiff whether he supports Real Madrid or Barcelona. The Pope responded diplomatically, saying he supports all teams but noted that Robert Prevost is a Real Madrid fan. Tomás Roncero, a journalist for Diario AS and a known Real Madrid supporter, reacted strongly, claiming the Pope cannot be a Barcelona fan because it is a 'sinful club.' Roncero accused Barcelona of cheating via the Negreira case, financial levers, and improper player registrations. He added that the Pope likely has a list of Barcelona fans needing confession and argued that Real Madrid represents a clean and pure club. The Pope is scheduled to stay in Madrid until June 9, then travel to Barcelona for further events.
Últimas NoticiasPope Leo XIV to Visit Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on Monday
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to visit Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabéu stadium on Monday, June 8, 2026, for a religious event starting at 7:00 p.m. The visit comes shortly after Real Madrid's presidential elections. The stadium has been prepared with a welcome banner and a stage for the Pope to address attendees via giant screens. This marks the second papal visit to the Bernabéu, following Pope John Paul II's visit on November 3, 1982, for a Celebration of the Word with young people. The event is expected to be a historic day for the club and its fans.
FútbolPope Leo XIV backs USA ahead of FIFA World Cup
Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born leader of the Catholic Church, has publicly declared his support for the United States national team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking to journalists on a flight from Rome to Madrid on June 6, 2026, the Pope said he would be cheering for the U.S. despite his busy schedule. The U.S. is co-hosting the tournament with Canada and Mexico and will face Paraguay, Australia, and Turkiye in Group D. The Pope, born Robert Prevost in the Chicago suburbs, also holds Peruvian citizenship and had previously indicated he would support Peru over the U.S., but Peru failed to qualify. During the same flight, he jokingly revealed that as 'Prevost' he supports Real Madrid over Barcelona, while maintaining papal neutrality. The Pope is currently on a week-long visit to Spain and the Canary Islands as the expanded 48-team World Cup prepares to begin on June 11.
The Hindu: Latest News today from India and the World, Breaking news, Top Headlines and Trending News Videos.Pope Leo XIV Reveals Football Allegiance to Real Madrid and World Cup Support for USA
During his visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV was asked about his preference between Real Madrid and FC Barcelona. He responded with a playful nod to his birth name, Robert Francis Prevost, stating 'The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost is for Real Madrid,' delighting Real Madrid fans. The Pope is scheduled to attend a large gathering at the Santiago-Bernabéu stadium. Additionally, ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, Leo XIV revealed he will support the United States, citing his American and Peruvian nationalities and noting that Peru did not qualify for the tournament.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertPope Leo XIV Reveals Real Madrid as Favorite Team, Settling Soccer Debate
Pope Leo XIV has finally settled the long-standing Real Madrid vs. Barcelona soccer debate by revealing his favorite team during a papal flight to Spain. When a reporter asked him to choose between the two Spanish giants, the Pope found a diplomatic way to answer but made his Real Madrid loyalty clear. The moment occurred on June 6, 2026, as reported by Yardbarker Soccer. The article highlights the cultural significance of the rivalry in Spain and the Pope's careful handling of the loaded question, ultimately confirming his preference for Real Madrid.
Yardbarker: SoccerReal Madrid Welcomes Pope Leo XIV as New 'Signing' After Football Allegiance Declaration
Pope Leo XIV, before arriving in Spain, declared his personal preference for Real Madrid over Barcelona in a press interaction, stating 'The Pope belongs to all the teams but Prevost (his surname) is from Real Madrid.' Real Madrid's official social media responded by welcoming him as a new signing. The pontiff is scheduled to attend a massive vigil at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium next Monday. The article, published by Mundo Deportivo on June 6, 2026, highlights the intersection of sports fandom and religious leadership, generating global headlines.
FútbolPope Leo XIV Jokes About Real Madrid vs Barcelona Preference During Madrid Visit
Upon arriving in Madrid for a seven-day visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV (born Robert Francis Prevost) was asked by journalists whether he preferred Real Madrid or FC Barcelona. The Pope joked, 'The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost is for Real Madrid,' referencing his surname. He will participate in a large gathering at Real Madrid's Santiago-Bernabeu stadium. Regarding the upcoming 2026 World Cup in North America, the Pope stated he will support the United States, as he holds American and Peruvian nationalities, noting Peru did not qualify. The article also includes links to related football news about Barcelona and Real Madrid transfers and other top sports stories.
Home Football - actualitésFlorentino Pérez: It is a pride that the Pope is from Real Madrid
Florentino Pérez, acting president of Real Madrid and candidate for re-election, welcomed Pope León XIV to Spain on June 6, 2026, during his campaign closing speech. Pérez expressed pride that the Pope is a supporter of Real Madrid, calling it a source of pride for all fans. The Pope arrived in Madrid for a visit lasting until Tuesday, when he will depart for Barcelona. Earlier, on the papal plane, Pope León XIV joked about football, acknowledging that while the Pope is for all teams, he personally is a Real Madrid fan. The article highlights the intersection of sports and religion, with the Pope's fandom being a notable talking point in Pérez's re-election campaign.
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