Pope Leo XIV has openly declared his support for Real Madrid during his official state visit to Spain, setting aside the usual diplomatic neutrality often associated with the papacy.
The pontiff, born Robert Prevost, jokingly revealed his football allegiance while speaking to journalists aboard the papal plane, saying that while the pope supports all teams, “Robert Prevost is Real Madrid.”
Speaking aboard the papal plane, the pontiff was asked whether he preferred Real Madrid or Barcelona, the two biggest clubs in Spanish football.
In response, he humorously stated that while the pope supports every team, his personal preference is Real Madrid.
The comment immediately drew attention from football supporters across Spain and beyond, given the intense rivalry between the two clubs.
Leo XIV, whose secular name is Robert Prevost, joked: “That’s easy… the pope is for all teams, but Robert Prevost is Real Madrid!”
The visit will see the pope spend time in both Madrid and Barcelona.
One of the major highlights of the trip is a prayer vigil scheduled outside the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid, where hundreds of thousands of worshippers are expected to gather.
The Bernabéu will also host a special meeting between the pope and members of Madrid’s diocesan community during the visit.
Beyond Spanish football, the pope also spoke about the upcoming FIFA World Cup, expressing support for his home country, the United States.
However, he admitted that his schedule may prevent him from watching many matches during the tournament.
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