• Pope Leo XIV publicly displayed his Chicago White Sox fandom by wearing their cap during a Vatican audience.
• His family confirmed he has always supported the White Sox, not the Cubs, reflecting deep Chicago sports roots.
• The pope’s Villanova ties also connect him to NBA players, adding another layer to his sports interests and public appeal.

Pope Leo XIV Celebrates His Chicago Roots with White Sox Cap at the Vatican

In a surprising yet heartwarming moment this week, Pope Leo XIV brought a splash of Chicago sports spirit right into the heart of the Vatican. During a general audience held at St. Peter’s Square, the pontiff was seen proudly sporting a black Chicago White Sox cap. The sight of the new pope showing off his baseball fandom, particularly in such an iconic religious setting, quickly caught the attention of both the faithful and sports fans alike.

As Pope Leo XIV greeted the crowd, his connection to Chicago baseball was clear. Among the people he warmly welcomed was a bride and groom, who, it seemed, shared his love for the American League Central team. The pope’s choice to wear the White Sox hat publicly was a joyful nod to his roots and a reminder that even religious leaders can hold dear the simple passions of their hometowns.

From Chicago Streets to Vatican Steps: The First American Pope’s Baseball Allegiance

The American-born Pope Leo XIV has been in the spotlight ever since his historic election in May, becoming the first U.S. pontiff. His election came shortly after the passing of Pope Francis in April, marking a significant shift in the Catholic Church’s leadership. While many have focused on his theological views and plans for the Church, the pope’s unmistakable loyalty to Chicago sports has become an endearing topic of conversation.

Despite some early rumors, it is now clear that Pope Leo XIV has never been a Cubs fan. His brother, John Prevost, dispelled any confusion in a recent interview with Chicago’s WGN TV. John made it clear: “He was never ever a Cubs fan, so I don’t know where that came from.” He explained that their mother’s devotion to the Cubs likely led to the mix-up, while their father was a St. Louis Cardinals fan. But Pope Leo XIV himself, born Robert Francis Prevost, has always rooted for the White Sox.

This family dynamic adds a rich layer to the story. While the mother’s side hailed from Chicago’s north side, a traditional Cubs stronghold, the pope’s own allegiance aligned with the South Side team, the White Sox. This split in loyalties within his family gives a personal touch to the pope’s baseball passion, revealing how deeply sports loyalties can run through generations.

A History of Sox Fandom: Proof from the Past

The pope’s connection to the White Sox isn’t just a recent development. A resurfaced video from 2005 showed him proudly wearing White Sox gear during the team’s World Series run against the Houston Astros. That year, Chicago clinched the championship by sweeping the Astros in four games—a momentous achievement for the city and for the team’s devoted fans.

This glimpse into the past confirms the pope’s long-standing passion for the White Sox, showing that his fandom has been a part of his life for decades. It also explains why, last month, the White Sox honored their most famous supporter with a special graphic at Guaranteed Rate Field, celebrating the unique link between their team and the Vatican’s leader.

Beyond Baseball: Villanova Pride and the Knicks Connection

While baseball might be the pope’s first love when it comes to sports, his alma mater Villanova University also plays a key role in his athletic interests. Pope Leo XIV graduated from Villanova in 1977, making him a proud Wildcat.

His connection to Villanova sparked hope among New York Knicks fans, who wished the pope’s Wildcat ties would inspire success for former Villanova stars now playing in the NBA. Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and Mikal Bridges, all Wildcats alumni, form the backbone of the Knicks’ roster, and many hoped their team’s performance would be blessed with a championship run.

Unfortunately for those fans, the Knicks’ playoff journey ended in disappointment, losing to the Indiana Pacers in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference finals. Still, the shared Villanova connection between Pope Leo XIV and the Knicks’ players brought a unique and spirited storyline to the postseason.

The Public’s Reaction: A Mix of Surprise and Delight

The sight of the pope wearing a White Sox cap sparked a wave of excitement and chatter on social media. Many fans expressed joy at seeing a global religious leader embrace his hometown team so openly. Some shared photos and videos, celebrating the pope’s authentic love for Chicago baseball. The moment felt like a bridge between the sacred and the everyday, humanizing the pope in a way that few expected.

Others debated the significance of his sports allegiance in light of his new role. Some questioned whether such a public display of fandom was appropriate for a pope, while many more saw it as a refreshing and relatable gesture. The overall tone leaned toward admiration for the pope’s willingness to share a piece of his personal life with the world.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Faith and Fandom

Pope Leo XIV’s White Sox cap isn’t just a piece of headwear—it’s a symbol of identity, connection, and tradition. It highlights how leaders, even those at the highest levels of spiritual authority, remain grounded in their roots. The pope’s visible fandom reminds us that sports can unite people across cultures and beliefs, offering a common ground even in the most unexpected places.

For now, Pope Leo XIV’s White Sox hat at the Vatican stands as a powerful reminder that even the most extraordinary leaders come from ordinary places—and that sometimes, the simplest gestures carry the most meaningful stories.