Pope Leo backs team USA for World Cup, says he’ll be cheering for his home country
MADRID, SPAIN: Pope Leo has thrown his support behind the United States ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, saying he will be rooting for his home country as it competes on football’s biggest stage.
Speaking to reporters aboard a flight to Madrid on Saturday, the Chicago-born pontiff said he intends to follow the tournament as closely as his schedule allows.
“I will certainly support the US,” Leo said. “I don’t know how many games I’ll be able to see, but, you know, I’ll try my best.”
The comments offer a rare glimpse into the sporting preferences of the pope, who was born in the United States before embarking on a religious career that eventually led him to the Vatican.
Pope Leo backs US World Cup team
While expressing clear support for the United States, Pope Leo indicated that his loyalties are not entirely straightforward.
The pontiff noted that Peru holds a special place in his heart because it was where he began his missionary work and spent formative years in ministry.
As a result, he said he is still considering which other national teams he may support during the tournament.
Leo also joked that Italy’s absence from the competition simplifies at least one aspect of the decision-making process, as the traditional football powerhouse will not be participating.
Spain visit begins with Royal welcome
The pope made the remarks as he traveled to Spain for a weeklong visit. After arriving in Madrid on Saturday, Leo was welcomed at the Royal Palace by King Felipe VI.
During his address, the pontiff praised Spain’s commitment to international law and highlighted the importance of peace, cooperation and solidarity among nations.
The visit marks one of the most significant international trips of his papacy to date.
On Sunday, Pope Leo is expected to meet leading figures from Spain’s sporting, cultural and artistic communities.
A historic moment is scheduled for Monday, when Leo will become the first pope ever to address the Spanish parliament, underscoring the significance of the visit.
The pontiff will then travel to Barcelona, where he will visit the iconic Sagrada Família and consecrate the newly completed Tower of Jesus Christ.
The tower represents the culmination of 144 years of construction and will make the basilica the tallest church in the world.
Pope Leo’s trip will conclude in the Canary Islands, a key destination along one of the world’s most dangerous migration routes.
By ending his visit there, the pontiff is expected to draw attention to the humanitarian challenges faced by migrants and refugees, a subject that has remained central to his message of compassion, solidarity and global responsibility.
