A Holy Rivalry: When Baseball Meets the Vatican
In a surprising blend of sports and spirituality, Pope Leo XIV exhibited his loyalty to the Chicago White Sox during a recent public event at the Vatican. Amidst the sea of faithful attendees, a Chicago Cubs fan's spirited shout of "Go Cubs!" echoed through the crowd. The Pope's immediate retort—"Han perdido! They lost!"—was classic, revealing not just his sense of humor but also a fierce, competitive spirit that mirrors the essence of sportsmanship.
More Than Just a Papal Appearance
This playful jab came on October 15, 2025, a day that would resonate in both the sports and religious communities. The image of the Pope, donning a proud White Sox hat while draped in his papal robe, encapsulates the rivalry deeply embedded in Chicago's rich sports culture.
“The head of the Catholic Church must remain impartial in many cases, but the White Sox fan in him will never fade.”
Deep Roots in Chicago Sports
Before ascending to the papacy, Robert Francis Prevost was already a known figure in Chicago's sports circle, particularly for his affinity for the White Sox. His brother had to clarify the misunderstandings about the Pope's allegiance to baseball teams, asserting, "Whoever said Cubs on the radio got it wrong. It's Sox.”
This information brought to light highlights how intertwined a community's spirit and an individual's identity can be. Many are curious about the religious leader's sports preferences, especially given the historical significance of the teams involved.
Season Stats: A Reflection of Loyalty
While the Cubs limped out of the postseason after losing to the Milwaukee Brewers, the Sox's struggles in the 2025 season have made this rivalry ever more poignant. The Cubs wrapped up their season with an impressive 92 wins, leaving fans eager for a shot at the NLCS. Meanwhile, the White Sox suffered through a dismal record of 60 wins and a staggering 102 losses.
“The Cubs had many more wins than the White Sox this season, but the Papal Brotherhood measures heart and passion beyond just numbers.”
Cultural Reflections in a Populist Era
This humorous encounter between Pope Leo XIV and the Cubs fan illustrates a cultural bridge existing between the worlds of faith and sports. It speaks to a universal theme: the thrill of competition, the joy of connection, and the playful banter that ups the ante in any rivalry.
This moment goes beyond sports; it's a reminder of how diverse the human experience can be. The Pope's light-hearted insult highlights a refreshing, more relatable side to the Catholic Church, an institution often perceived as formal and austere.
Bringing Fans Closer
As a sports reporter, I see how the Pope's playful take transcends the baseball diamond. It invites us to reflect on our own loyalties—who we root for, who we stand behind, and how those passions weave a rich tapestry of community ties.
In an era craving connection, this cheeky exchange reminds us of the constant dance between spirit and sport, love and loyalty—and where we find our true allegiances. As the 2025 season comes to a close, fans everywhere are left wondering what the off-season holds for their respective teams, but the name of the game is loyalty, and Pope Leo XIV's playful comeback will live in the hearts of both Sox and Cubs fans alike.
Conclusion: The Pope as a Sports Icon
This episode presents Pope Leo XIV not just as a spiritual leader but as a cultural icon who can unite, entertain, and engage people far removed from religious boundaries. Through his response, we understand that he embodies all the traits we celebrate in sports: passion, loyalty, and a sense of humor that elevates the human experience.
Keep your eyes peeled for what's next in Chicago's sports story—who knows, maybe the Pope will appoint a chaplain for the White Sox this off-season!
Source reference: https://www.foxnews.com/sports/pope-leo-xiv-responds-cubs-fan-playful-jab-during-vatican-appearance
