The new pope has been elected as Cardinal Robert Prevost, who took the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American pope in history
. Before the conclave, several cardinals were considered frontrunners and possible candidates:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70 years old), Vatican Secretary of State and a seasoned diplomat, was widely regarded as the frontrunner due to his experience and role in Vatican diplomacy
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines), known as the "Asian Francis" for his progressive views and advocacy for social justice, was also seen as a strong contender
- Other notable candidates included Cardinal Peter Erdo (Hungary), Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo (Democratic Republic of Congo), and Cardinal Anders Arborelius (Sweden)
The conclave began in early May 2025, with 133 eligible cardinals voting in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel. The election process is secretive and can last until a candidate receives a two-thirds majority
. Ultimately, Cardinal Robert Prevost was chosen and became Pope Leo XIV
. In summary, the current pope as of May 2025 is Pope Leo XIV, formerly Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States.
