Pope Leo XIV declares Real Madrid favourite club

Pope Leo XIV said his favourite football club is Real Madrid on Saturday, ahead of the 2026 World Cup kickoff. Florentino Perez, president of Real Madrid, welcomed the Pope’s comment. When asked by media about his preferred club, the Pope gave a diplomatic answer before revealing his personal preference for Real Madrid. He added, “That’s easy. The Pope is for all the teams… but Robert Prevost is a Real Madrid fan.” The Pope’s visit to Spain is part of a tour lasting until 12 June.

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Real Madrid announced that the Santiago Bernabéu will host the Pope on Monday for a meeting with the diocesan community of Madrid. The stadium will display a large canvas reading “Welcome, Holy Father” and a stage will be set up for the address, with giant screens broadcasting the event. Perez said he was proud to welcome Leo XIV to Spain and highlighted the Pope’s support as a source of pride for the club. The Bernabéu is finalising preparations for the Monday event.