This Wednesday, FC Barcelona shared an official message congratulating newly elected Pope León XIV, wishing him a papacy “full of peace and understanding in the world.” The announcement was posted via the club’s official Spanish-language X account (@FCBarcelona_es), marking a gesture that goes beyond football and into a moment of global significance.

Barça’s Message to the Vatican

"FC Barcelona wishes the new Pontiff León XIV a papacy full of peace and understanding in the world."

The message was generally well-received across social media, though it did raise eyebrows among some fans, considering the club’s secular roots and institutional context. Still, such gestures are in line with Barça’s long-standing identity as “more than a club”, known for engaging with social causes and major global events.

Who Is Pope León XIV?

León XIV was elected as the new head of the Catholic Church following the resignation of his predecessor. His arrival in the Vatican has triggered reactions across political, social, and even sporting communities, with many prominent figures and institutions sharing messages of support and welcome.