Who Will Be the Next Pope? Here's the Shocking List of Top Contenders in the 2025 Papal Conclave
The sudden death of Pope Francis has sent shockwaves across the Catholic world, setting the stage for one of the most consequential papal elections in modern history. The question on everyone’s mind is: Who will be the next Pope? From the possibility of the first Asian or Black pontiff in centuries to a conservative revolt against Francis’s progressive legacy, the upcoming conclave is poised to reshape the global Catholic Church.
With cardinals secretly maneuvering behind closed doors, the next Pope 2025 could be a continuity candidate or a radical departure. Let’s explore the front-runners, their ideologies, controversies, and the growing buzz around this historic Vatican decision.
🔍 Top Contenders to Become the Next Pope in 2025
🕊️ Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, Age 70)
The Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, Parolin is seen as a continuity candidate. He brokered major international deals, including the controversial agreement with China over bishop appointments. Diplomatic and loyal to Francis, he represents the moderate face of the Church, though some critics say he prioritizes politics over doctrine.
🌏 Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, Age 67)
Once seen as Pope Francis’s heir apparent, Tagle could become the first Asian pope—a historic move given Asia’s rising Catholic population. A reformist with progressive views on marginalized groups but staunchly anti-abortion, his recent low profile has raised doubts about his chances in the 2025 conclave.
✊ Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana, Age 76)
Turkson could become the first Black pope in over a millennium. Vocal about climate change and economic injustice, he walks a fine line between upholding Church orthodoxy and embracing social issues. He’s softened his stance on LGBTQ+ laws in Africa, calling many of them "too harsh."
🛡️ Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary, Age 72)
A leading conservative voice and intellectual heavyweight, Erdő could signal a dramatic shift from Francis’s inclusive policies. He’s aligned with nationalist politics and fiercely defends traditional teachings on marriage, sexuality, and migration.
🕊️ Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy, Age 69)
Zuppi is widely regarded as the progressive favorite to carry forward Francis’s legacy. Known for his compassion, work with the poor, and peace missions (including outreach in Ukraine), he could emerge as the surprise consensus candidate in the 2025 papal election.
📚 Cardinal José Tolentino Calaça de Mendonça (Portugal, Age 59)
Young by papal standards, Tolentino is a poet-theologian open to modern values. While admired for his intellect and spiritual leadership, his progressive views on gender roles and sexuality could hinder his chances with conservative factions.
🌍 Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta, Age 68)
Initially a traditionalist, Grech’s views have evolved under Francis. He’s expressed openness to female deacons and progressive theological discussions, suggesting adaptability that could appeal to centrists in the conclave.
✝️ Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy, Age 60)
As the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, Pizzaballa made global headlines by offering himself in exchange for child hostages in Gaza. Though light on theological statements, his heroic gestures and deep Middle Eastern involvement make him a respected figure.
🔥 Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea, Age 79)
A staunch conservative and critic of Francis, Sarah denounced gender ideology and Islamic fundamentalism. Though older than many front-runners, he could galvanize traditionalists seeking to reverse liberal reforms. Like Turkson, he could be the first Black pope in centuries.
🌐 Global Impact of the Next Papacy
The next Pope will face unprecedented global challenges: growing secularism, Church sexual abuse scandals, LGBTQ+ inclusion, climate change, and geopolitical crises. The 2025 papal conclave isn’t just about Catholicism—it’s about the direction of global morality, diplomacy, and leadership.
🔥 10 Most-Asked FAQs About the 2025 Papal Conclave
1. Who will be the next pope in 2025?
While the conclave is secret, front-runners include Cardinals Parolin, Tagle, Turkson, Erdő, and Zuppi. No outcome is guaranteed.
2. Could there be a Black pope in 2025?
Yes, Cardinals Peter Turkson and Robert Sarah are both African and could become the first Black popes in modern times.
3. Who is the youngest candidate to become pope?
Cardinal José Tolentino de Mendonça (59) is among the youngest discussed candidates.
4. Could the next pope come from Asia?
Yes, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines is a major contender, potentially becoming the first Asian pope.
5. Will the next pope continue Pope Francis’s legacy?
Candidates like Zuppi and Grech are expected to continue Francis’s inclusive policies, while Erdő and Sarah may reverse them.
6. When is the next papal conclave?
The conclave traditionally begins 15-20 days after the pope’s death. Preparations are already underway in Rome.
7. How is a new pope selected?
The College of Cardinals meets in a conclave, where they vote in secrecy. A two-thirds majority is required to elect the next pope.
8. Can a pope be non-European?
Yes, Pope Francis was from Argentina. The next pope could come from Africa or Asia.
9. What happens after a pope dies?
The papal seat becomes sede vacante, triggering the conclave and global mourning followed by a new election.
10. What role does politics play in the papal election?
While theoretically spiritual, Church politics, ideology, geography, and diplomacy heavily influence voting patterns.
Final Thoughts
The race for the next pope in 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most watched and pivotal in Church history. With powerful ideological divides, global representation on the line, and unprecedented challenges ahead, the world is watching Rome. Will the conclave choose a familiar voice of continuity or a groundbreaking new leader?
Stay tuned as we bring you real-time updates from the Vatican.
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