In Chicago, a city divided by baseball loyalties, fans were eager to know whether the newly elected pope, Pope Leo XIV, is a supporter of the Chicago Cubs or the Chicago White Sox. The age-old rivalry sees North Siders typically rooting for the Cubs, who play at Wrigley Field, while South Siders cheer for the Sox at Rate Field.
At first, both teams claimed him as one of their own, with Cubs chairman Tom Ricketts extending an invitation for the pope to visit Wrigley. The anticipation grew when the Cubs' marquee implied he favored their team. However, Pope Leo XIV's brother, John Prevost, clarified on WGN that the pontiff has always been a loyal White Sox fan, leaving no room for debate among Chicago baseball enthusiasts.
Julie Bosman is the Chicago bureau chief for The Times, covering stories across the Midwest.
