This Thursday, the world welcomed a new leader of the Catholic Church: Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago in 1955, and elected as the successor to Pope Francis I. While his roots are American, much of his pastoral life unfolded in Peru, a country where football is deeply embedded in the national identity.

Following his election, fans and media began to speculate whether Pope Leo XIV shares a passion for the beautiful game — much like his predecessor, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a lifelong supporter of San Lorenzo in Argentina.cercana como la que tuvo su predecesor, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, recordado hincha del club argentino San Lorenzo.

Could Leo XIV Have a Favorite Team?

Though there's no official confirmation, reports from El Futbolero suggest a possible soft spot for Universidad César Vallejo, a Peruvian first-division club based in Trujillo. The theory stems from the Pope’s long-standing missionary work in Chulucanas, Piura, located in northern Peru — not far from Trujillo.

While not as overt a fan affiliation as Pope Francis had with San Lorenzo, the regional and cultural connection between Pope Leo XIV and César Vallejo has sparked plenty of speculation.

Who Are Universidad César Vallejo?

Universidad César Vallejo was founded in Trujillo and gained promotion to the Peruvian top flight in 2018. The club has not yet captured a domestic league title, but has consistently qualified for international competitions like the Copa Sudamericana and the Copa Libertadores, even reaching the round of 16 on two occasions.

For many, the club represents more than just football — it symbolizes a region where Pope Leo XIV lived for over 20 years, making it a likely candidate for his unofficial support.

Another Possibility: Club Juan Pablo II

Some outlets, such as Nación Futbol, have floated an alternative: Club Juan Pablo II, a Peruvian side named after Pope John Paul II, whom Leo XIV reportedly admired deeply. Though this connection is more symbolic and spiritual than geographic, it has also captured the imagination of fans.

Whether he cheers for César Vallejo, Juan Pablo II, or simply enjoys the sport in silence, the question remains: Will Pope Leo XIV follow football with the same passion as his predecessor? Only time — and maybe a papal scarf — will tell.