White Sox Expand Giveaway of Pope-Themed Hats to All Fans
The Chicago White Sox have announced an expansion of their promotional giveaway for Pope Leo XIV-themed hats, making them available to all fans attending the August 11 game against the Cincinnati Reds. Originally restricted to purchasers of specialty theme night tickets, the decision follows overwhelming fan demand. Brooks Boyer, the team’s chief revenue and marketing officer, stated that the promotion celebrates the Pope, a Chicago native and longtime supporter of the franchise. The distinctive hats are shaped like a papal miter and feature the White Sox sock logo. Fans who previously bought the specialty tickets will receive the hat plus an additional item. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, has a documented history with the team, having attended the 2005 World Series opener. Recent tributes include a graphic installation at Rate Field and a signed jersey presented to Paul Konerko. The Pope has also publicly shown support for the White Sox, notably breaking Vatican protocol by wearing team merchandise and engaging in friendly rivalry banter with Cubs fans. This move highlights the intersection of sports culture and religious figurehead fandom in Chicago.
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White Sox Expand Giveaway of Pope-Themed Hats to All Fans
The Chicago White Sox have announced an expansion of their promotional giveaway for Pope Leo XIV-themed hats, making them available to all fans attending the August 11 game against the Cincinnati Reds. Originally restricted to purchasers of specialty theme night tickets, the decision follows overwhelming fan demand. Brooks Boyer, the team’s chief revenue and marketing officer, stated that the promotion celebrates the Pope, a Chicago native and longtime supporter of the franchise. The distinctive hats are shaped like a papal miter and feature the White Sox sock logo. Fans who previously bought the specialty tickets will receive the hat plus an additional item. Pope Leo XIV, formerly Robert Prevost, has a documented history with the team, having attended the 2005 World Series opener. Recent tributes include a graphic installation at Rate Field and a signed jersey presented to Paul Konerko. The Pope has also publicly shown support for the White Sox, notably breaking Vatican protocol by wearing team merchandise and engaging in friendly rivalry banter with Cubs fans. This move highlights the intersection of sports culture and religious figurehead fandom in Chicago.
AP News