The main nominees considered likely candidates for the next pope include:
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle (Philippines): Known as the "Asian Francis," Tagle is noted for his missionary spirit, social justice advocacy, and a progressive stance on issues like LGBTQ+ inclusion and care for the poor. He is a former archbishop of Manila and currently pro-prefect for the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): The Vatican Secretary of State since 2013, Parolin is a seasoned diplomat with experience in Nigeria, Mexico, Spain, and Italy. He is seen as a centrist and stabilizer within the Church, though some criticize his role in the Vatican-China agreement
- Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): President of the Italian bishops conference, Zuppi is known as a "street priest" and missionary who supports modernization and inclusivity in the Church. He has been a papal envoy in sensitive regions promoting peace
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (USA): An American cardinal with broad experience in Vatican leadership and missionary work, Prevost is considered an "outside insider" with a reputation for being less traditionally American and more globally minded
- Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary): A traditionalist who opposes some of Pope Francis’ progressive reforms, Erdő is multilingual and diplomatic, appealing to conservative factions within the Church
- Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy): Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, known for bridging divides in the Middle East and managing financial crises. Seen as a compromise candidate who avoids doctrinal controversies
Other names occasionally mentioned include Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana) and Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Democratic Republic of Congo), reflecting the Church’s global diversity
. These candidates represent a range of theological and pastoral approaches, reflecting the complex and unpredictable nature of the papal election process
