From the Vatican to the Ballpark: Pope Leo XIV Shows Off His White Sox Pride
You can take the guy out of the South Side, but apparently, you can’t take the South Side out of the guy — because Pope Leo XIV just made headlines for an unexpected style choice: repping his beloved Chicago White Sox in full papal gear.
During a general assembly in Rome this week, the pontiff momentarily ditched his traditional white zucchetto — that signature skullcap — and instead slipped on a classic black White Sox baseball cap. The result? A viral moment for the ages and a major win for fans of faith and baseball alike.
Photos and videos from the assembly show Pope Leo grinning from ear to ear under the brim of the Sox cap, flashing that signature down-to-earth vibe that’s made him a fan favorite both in the Catholic world and beyond.
South Side Roots, Vatican Heights
Though he now calls Vatican City home, Pope Leo XIV has never been shy about his Chicago roots — especially his deep ties to the South Side. And while the White Sox are currently struggling with a 23-44 record, Leo seems to be sticking by his team, proving loyalty knows no scoreboard.
Whether or not he’s tuning into every inning from the Apostolic Palace, one thing’s for sure: His baseball allegiance hasn’t changed since he ascended to the papacy.
Sox Nation Reacts: ‘He’s One of Us!’
White Sox fans across social media went wild after seeing the papal show of support.
“If this isn’t divine intervention, I don’t know what is,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
“The Pope said: ‘I got your back, boys.’” another joked.
The team’s official social media accounts even reposted the footage with the caption:
“South Side represents — even in Rome!”
From Murals to Jerseys: Sox Honor Their Holiest Fan
This isn’t the first time the White Sox have celebrated their most divine fan. After Pope Leo was elected, the team installed a mural inside Guaranteed Rate Field in his honor, featuring a customized White Sox jersey and a snapshot of his now-iconic appearance at the 2005 World Series — long before his rise to papal power.
He’s also been gifted a Chicago Bears jersey, proving that his love for hometown sports runs across multiple fields.
Coming to America: A Papal Visit to Sox Territory?
And it gets better — Pope Leo XIV is set to deliver his first official address to America later this week, and it’s happening right in his old stomping grounds. Chicagoans will have the rare chance to see the Pope live at Guaranteed Rate Field, making it one of the most unconventional — and unforgettable — stops on a papal tour.
While it’s unclear whether he’ll throw out the ceremonial first pitch, fans are already speculating he’ll bless the team — and maybe even their playoff chances — from the mound.
Can Divine Intervention Help the Sox?
With the White Sox in desperate need of a turnaround, some fans are wondering if Pope Leo’s prayers might give the team a heavenly boost. Could a little divine intercession be what this franchise needs?
Time will tell — but if baseball truly is a religion in Chicago, Pope Leo is living proof that faith and fandom can go hand in hand.
What do you think of Pope Leo’s Sox pride? Should more celebs and world leaders show off their sports loyalties this boldly?
Drop your thoughts in the comments — and stay tuned for more divine updates!
