Who will be the next Pope? Here are the top contenders
Following the passing of Pope Francis at age 88, global attention turns to Rome as the College of Cardinals prepares for the Papal Conclave. As the first Latin American pontiff, Francis' election in 2013 hinted at a broader shift within the Catholic Church. Now, speculation mounts over whether this trend will continue, possibly with the first black or Asian Pope. Media reports suggest these are the frontrunners being closely watched.
Cardinal Peter Turkson, 76
Former bishop of Cape Coast, Turkson would become the first Black Pope if elected. A widely respected figure across Africa, he was sent by the pope on peace mission to South Sudan. Though conservative on many church teachings, he has urged understanding on LGBT issues, stating that African nations' views are too harsh but that the views of Africans on the subject must be respected. Turkson was a favourite during the 2013 conclave.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67
The former archbishop of Manila, Tagle is currently one of the favourites among Vatican observers. If elected, he would be the first Asian Pope, reflecting the rapid growth of Catholicism in Asia. Known for his progressive tone, Tagle has criticised the Church’s harsh treatment of divorced and gay individuals, suggesting such approaches have hindered its outreach. However, He has opposed abortion rights in the Philippines.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, 70
Serving as Cardinal Secretary of State under Pope Francis, Pietro Parolin is viewed as the most likely candidate to continue the previous Pope's direction. While generally seen as moderate, he has taken conservative positions at times. His 2015 statement describing Ireland’s same-sex marriage referendum as “a defeat for humanity” drew widespread controversy. His involvement in the 2018 Vatican-China agreement has led to criticism, with some accusing him of being overly accommodating to Beijing’s regime.
Cardinal Peter Erdo, 72
The Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, Cardinal Peter Erdo,has long been a vocal defender of conservative Catholic teachings. He previously sought to rehabilitate his predecessor, Jozsef Mindszenty, who was arrested for resisting Hungary’s former communist regime. Erdo would be the second Pope to have ministered in the former Soviet bloc, following John Paul II. He has consistently opposed allowing divorced and remarried Catholics to receive Holy Communion.
Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Mendonça, 59
Hailing from Madeira, Portugal -- birthplace of footballer Cristiano Ronaldo -- Cardinal Jose Tolentino de Mendonça has held various Vatican roles and served as an Archbishop. Often seen as the younger voice among the senior clergy, he has encouraged biblical scholars to embrace contemporary culture, suggesting they draw insights from modern music and cinema.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi, 69
Appointed as Archbishop of Bologna in 2015 and elevated to cardinal in 2019 by Pope Francis, Matteo Zuppi was chosen two years ago as the Vatican’s peace envoy to Ukraine. During his mission, he visited Moscow to appeal for humanitarian action, although his meeting with Russian Orthodox leader Patriarch Kirill yielded limited progress.
Cardinal Mario Grech, 68
Cardinal Mario Grech, originally from Malta and formerly Bishop of Gozo, now serves as Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops. While his conservative stance aligns with traditional Catholic doctrine, he has called for a shift in how the Church communicates with gay couples and divorcees, suggesting a need for a “new language” in pastoral care.
Cardinal Robert Sarah, 79
Born in French Guinea, Cardinal Robert Sarah is another high-profile African candidate. Despite his advanced age, his name continues to feature in discussions about the papacy. A staunch conservative, he has denounced gender ideology and Islamic extremism, and has served in high-level Vatican posts since the era of Pope John Paul II.