Meet the 9 Leading Candidates to Be the Next Pope
As the Catholic Church prepares for its next chapter, here are the cardinals being talked about as possible successors.
With Pope Francis' passing at age 88, the Vatican will soon begin the conclave—a private vote among cardinals to choose the next pope. While no one can predict exactly who will be chosen—there’s even an old saying in Italy, “He who enters a conclave as pope, leaves it as a cardinal”—here are nine of the most talked-about candidates, known as papabili, or potential popes.
Jean-Marc Aveline (France, 66)
Currently the archbishop of Marseille, Aveline is known for his approachable, cheerful personality and deep intellectual background. He’s ideologically close to Pope Francis, especially when it comes to immigration and interfaith dialogue.
Born in Algeria to Spanish parents, Aveline has spent most of his life in Marseille—a city known for its cultural and religious diversity. He rose quickly through the Church’s ranks and organized a major Vatican conference in 2023 that Pope Francis personally attended.
If chosen, he’d be the first French pope in over 700 years and the youngest since John Paul II. However, his limited Italian skills could be a disadvantage in Rome.
Peter Erdo (Hungary, 72)
Seen as a conservative but diplomatic choice, Cardinal Erdo has strong Church connections in both Europe and Africa. He’s an expert in Church law and was previously considered a contender in the 2013 conclave.
He’s multilingual and known for supporting traditional values while avoiding public clashes with Pope Francis. However, his stance during the 2015 migrant crisis—opposing church involvement in refugee housing—sparked criticism and aligned him with Hungary’s nationalist leadership.
Still, his calm and steady personality could appeal to cardinals looking for a more measured papacy.
Mario Grech (Malta, 68)
Hailing from the tiny island of Gozo, Grech has become a key figure in the Vatican as secretary general of the Synod of Bishops. Once considered conservative, he’s shifted in recent years to back more progressive reforms in line with Pope Francis’ agenda.
Grech has publicly supported greater inclusion for LGBT Catholics and new approaches to modern family life. While his progressive views have earned him critics, he’s widely known in Vatican circles, which is a plus during a conclave.
He’s also seen as someone who builds bridges between conservatives and moderates.
Juan José Omella (Spain, 79)
Omella has long focused on social justice, humility, and compassion—values that mirror Pope Francis’ own priorities. A missionary in Africa early in his career, he later worked with charities tackling global poverty and hunger.
As archbishop of Barcelona and a former leader of Spain’s bishops' conference, Omella has had to handle sensitive issues, including clergy abuse investigations.
His close ties to Pope Francis might help—or hurt—his chances, depending on whether cardinals want continuity or change. Still, his humble image and dedication to the poor make him a strong moral candidate.
Pietro Parolin (Italy, 70)
Often considered a favorite, Parolin is currently the Vatican’s Secretary of State, essentially acting as the pope’s right-hand man. He has a long background in Church diplomacy and has played a major role in sensitive negotiations, especially with China and Vietnam.
Parolin is known as a balanced figure—not too progressive, not too conservative—which could make him a strong compromise candidate. His critics, however, point to his limited pastoral experience and his cautious stance on Church reforms.
If elected, he would be the first Italian pope since 1978.
Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, 67)
Often called the “Asian Francis”, Cardinal Tagle is known for his warmth, humility, and strong advocacy for social justice. Originally the Archbishop of Manila, he was brought to Rome by Pope Francis to head the Vatican’s missionary efforts.
Fluent in English and Italian, Tagle has strong international appeal and represents the Church’s growing presence in Asia. While a past controversy involving Caritas Internationalis might raise questions, many believe it won’t significantly impact his chances.
If elected, he would become the first Asian pope in Church history.
Joseph Tobin (USA, 72)
Though a U.S. pope remains unlikely, Cardinal Tobin is often named as the top American possibility. He has experience in both global religious leadership and Vatican roles and is admired for his openness, humility, and inclusive views.
Tobin won praise for how he handled a major Church scandal in Newark and is known for supporting the LGBT community and transparency in Church matters.
He speaks multiple languages and has international experience, but being American might work against him in a traditionally Euro-centric Church.
Peter Turkson (Ghana, 76)
Cardinal Turkson would be the first pope from sub-Saharan Africa—a region where the Catholic Church is growing rapidly. He has a strong pastoral background, deep knowledge of global issues, and experience leading several Vatican departments.
Turkson has often represented the Church at high-profile events like the Davos Forum and has been vocal on climate change and social justice. Though he once said he prays against becoming pope, some believe he’s a quiet contender.
Matteo Zuppi (Italy, 69)
Known as the “Italian Francis,” Zuppi is a popular figure within the Italian Church. He’s a down-to-earth leader who prefers being called “Father Matteo” and is closely connected to grassroots movements like the Community of Sant’Egidio.
Zuppi is also involved in international diplomacy, including efforts to assist Ukraine in recovering children displaced during the war. However, he may face criticism for the Italian Church’s slow response to abuse cases.
Still, his hands-on style, peace efforts, and Vatican connections keep him in the conversation.
What Comes Next?
Over the coming weeks, cardinals from around the world will gather in Rome for the conclave. While predicting the next pope is tricky, each of these candidates brings something unique—whether it’s diplomacy, reform, tradition, or global representation.
The next pope will guide over 1.3 billion Catholics and play a powerful role in shaping the Church’s direction on faith, politics, and global issues. Whoever is chosen will be stepping into one of the most influential—and scrutinized—roles in the world.
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