Pope Leo XIV has publicly identified as a fan of Real Madrid, choosing the Spanish club over its historic rival, FC Barcelona. The revelation went viral after the Pope clarified that while the papacy belongs to all, his personal sporting preference lies with the Madrid-based team, prompting a welcoming response from club president Florentino Pérez.
A Choice Between Spanish Giants
The moment occurred when the Pope was asked to settle a perennial debate in global football: Real Madrid or Barcelona. In his response, Leo XIV balanced his official role with his personal interests, stating that the pope is of all teams
, but confirming his specific support for Real Madrid.
The admission quickly gained traction across social media, highlighting the intersection of the world’s most influential religious office and one of the most successful sporting institutions in history.
Real Madrid’s Official Reaction
The news was met with enthusiasm by the leadership at the Santiago Bernabéu. Florentino Pérez, the president of Real Madrid, responded to the Pope’s confession by expressing the club’s honor in having the pontiff’s support.
Es un orgullo que el papa sea del Real Madrid
Florentino Pérez
Pérez’s welcoming remarks underscore the prestige the club attaches to such a high-profile endorsement, especially given the global reach of both the Vatican and the Spanish league.
