As the world celebrated the historic election of the first American pope, one light-hearted but burning question echoed across Chicago: was Pope Leo XIV a Cubs fan or a Sox fan? The answer, it turns out, surprised many—especially those quick to associate him with Chicago’s beloved North Side team.
Born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood and raised in the southern suburbs, Pope Leo XIV grew up in a home where baseball allegiances were split. His mother rooted for the Cubs, being from the North Side, while his father stayed loyal to the St. Louis Cardinals. However, according to his brother John Prevost, the future pope forged his own path early on, aligning himself not with the Cubs, but with their crosstown rivals, the Chicago White Sox. “Whoever said Cubs on the radio got it wrong,” John told WGN in a recent interview. “It’s Sox. He was never, ever a Cubs fan.”
With that statement, any lingering speculation was laid to rest. Pope Leo XIV has two brothers—Louis, a military veteran living in Florida, and John, a former Catholic school principal. John’s recollection offered fans a rare, personal glimpse into the pope’s early life, especially as the Chicago Cubs had quickly attempted to associate themselves with the newly elected pontiff. Just hours after the papal announcement, the Cubs posted a tribute on social media featuring the famous Harry Caray phrase: “The good Lord wants the Cubs to win!” It was a bold move, but ultimately misguided. The South Side wasn’t about to let that slide.
The White Sox responded quickly and enthusiastically, proudly claiming Pope Leo XIV as one of their own. They even sent a team jersey and cap straight to the Vatican. “Family always knows best,” the White Sox said in a statement to NBC Chicago. “And it sounds like Pope Leo XIV’s lifelong fandom falls a little closer to 35th and Shields. Some things are bigger than baseball, but in this case, we’re glad to have a White Sox fan represented at the Vatican.” Born in the suburb of Dolton, Pope Leo attended St. Mary of the Assumption on the city’s Far Southeast Side and spent his formative years deeply rooted in his local community.
Despite his global responsibilities and time spent serving the Church in places like Peru, he’s never strayed from his Chicago heritage—or his love for South Side baseball. Sister Barbara Reid, president of the Catholic Theological Union where he once studied, highlighted his character during a press conference. “He’s an extraordinary person with a very keen intellect, a heart as big as the whole world, especially for the people who most are on the margins,” she said. Even as he rose through the Church’s ranks and began working abroad, Pope Leo remained true to the values and passions he developed back home. In fact, he was present at the 2005 World Series, cheering on the White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field during their legendary championship run. Sports have always played a role in Pope Leo’s life, extending beyond baseball. A 1977 graduate of Villanova University, he also enjoys tennis and once referred to himself as a casual player. In a 2023 interview, he joked about how his current responsibilities have left little time for hobbies, saying, “Since leaving Peru I have had few occasions to practice, so I am looking forward to getting back on the court. Not that this new job has left me much free time for it so far.” And while baseball and tennis occupy his heart, soccer has also left its mark. Pope Leo XIV is a longtime supporter of Alianza Lima, one of Peru’s most popular football clubs. This connection reflects not only his years of ministry in Peru but also his ability to fully embrace the cultures he serves, forming genuine ties with the people around him. Despite his elevated role in the Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV remains deeply human and relatable to many, especially those from Chicago. His commitment to faith, service, and sports paint a portrait of a man who never forgot where he came from—even as he stepped into the Vatican spotlight.
