Pope Leo XIV embraces White Sox fandom amid historic election

In a historic event for American Catholics, Robert Prevost was elected as Pope Leo XIV. This election, taking place in early May 2025, marked the first time a pope hails from the United States in the Catholic Church's long history. Prevost, a Chicago-born missionary, has been known for his connection to the Chicago White Sox, a detail that generated considerable excitement among fans of the team. While initial reports suggested that he was a supporter of the Chicago Cubs, his brother clarified that Prevost has always been a White Sox fan, a revelation that the team embraced enthusiastically. The White Sox organization responded positively to this new connection with the pontiff, celebrating the news with congratulatory messages and tributes. They sent a jersey and a hat to the Vatican to mark the occasion, and fans were treated to scoreboard messages at the games underscoring the pope's allegiance to the South Side team. White Sox's manager, Will Venable, openly expressed his excitement about having Pope Leo XIV as a supporter, recognizing the significance of this recognition for the struggling team. Beyond his fandom, Robert Prevost's election as pope is seen as a monumental moment in the trajectory of both the Catholic Church and the United States. Prevost has long been active as a missionary and church leader, emphasizing his dedication to social justice and outreach to the marginalized. This backstory adds layers to his role as pope, as he brings with him a unique perspective shaped by years of service in Peru and a commitment to the principles of modern Catholic social thought. With Rosemont, Illinois serving as his childhood home and Villanova University as his educational backdrop, Prevost's early experiences have shaped him into the leader now being observed by millions worldwide. His election also signifies an evolution in the Church’s leadership style and approach as it continues to engage with contemporary issues affecting the faithful. The enthusiastic reception of his White Sox fandom showcases the intersection of sports and culture, particularly in Chicago, a city known for its passionate sports community and deep-rooted sense of identity. As Pope Leo XIV, Prevost is expected to carry this heritage into his papacy, suggesting a hopeful path forward for both his supporters and the Catholic Church as a whole.