From Dispatch Room
Pope Leo XIV has expressed support for the U.S. soccer team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite his Vatican responsibilities. Speaking aboard a papal flight from Rome to Madrid, the pontiff, originally from Chicago, confirmed he will be rooting for the U.S., co-hosts of the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico.
The Pope, who spent decades as a missionary and bishop in Peru, noted that he would have supported Peru in a matchup but the country did not qualify this year. He wished the U.S. team well in Group D, where they will face Paraguay, Australia, and Turkey.
During the interview, Pope Leo also addressed club loyalties, stating he supports all teams but revealed a personal preference for Real Madrid over Barcelona. The World Cup kicks off on Thursday, June 11, 2026, with global attention focused on the opening matches across North America.
— Newspot Nigeria
