As the Catholic Church welcomed Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pontiff in history, much has been said about his deep theological background, missionary service in Latin America, and his role in guiding over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. But for those in Chicago, where he was born and raised, one particular question sparked a flurry of hometown curiosity: Is the new pope a Cubs fan or a Sox fan?
Thanks to insights from his family, the answer is now clear — and it speaks to the South Side pride Pope Leo XIV has carried with him throughout his life.
A Family Deeply Rooted in the Midwest
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, grew up in the Bronzeville neighborhood and later moved to Dolton, Illinois, in the city’s south suburbs. He is one of three sons born to a North Side mother, who was a loyal Chicago Cubs fan, and a St. Louis Cardinals-supporting father. But according to his brother John Prevost, the now pontiff forged his own path when it came to baseball loyalties.
“Whoever said Cubs on the radio got it wrong,” John Prevost told WGN-TV in a May 2025 interview. “It’s Sox. He was never, ever a Cubs fan.”
Source: WGN-TV
This clarification quickly went viral, settling an unexpected sports debate in the wake of Pope Leo’s election. While both the Cubs and White Sox publicly congratulated the new pope, the South Side team made an extra effort to honor his roots.
White Sox Welcome Their Most Famous Fan
Not long after Pope Leo XIV’s election was confirmed on May 8, 2025, the Chicago Cubs posted a tribute on social media, referencing legendary broadcaster Harry Caray’s famous phrase: “The good Lord wants the Cubs to win!”
But the White Sox, backed by testimony from the Pope’s own brother, had the last word.
The organization sent a customized White Sox jersey and cap to the Vatican, proudly claiming the first American pope as a lifelong supporter.
“Family always knows best,” the White Sox told NBC Chicago. “And it sounds like Pope Leo XIV’s lifelong fandom falls a little closer to 35th and Shields.”
Source: NBC Chicago
Faith, Education, and Community
Though best known now as Pope Leo XIV, Robert Prevost began his spiritual journey on the South Side of Chicago. He regularly attended St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, where he was involved in parish life as a youth.
After graduating from Villanova University in 1977, he joined the Order of St. Augustine and served extensively in Peru, eventually becoming bishop of Chiclayo. His time in Latin America deeply shaped his pastoral outlook and commitment to serving marginalized communities.
At a recent press conference, Sister Barbara Reid, president of the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago—where Prevost once studied—praised his compassion and intellect.
“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,” said Sister Reid.
Source: Chicago Sun-Times
A Pope Who Loves Sports
Despite his global role, Pope Leo XIV’s passion for sports remains part of his personal identity. Before taking his vows, he was an active sports enthusiast, and those close to him confirm he still follows major athletic events closely when possible.
- Baseball: As a loyal White Sox fan, he was reportedly in attendance during the 2005 World Series when the team clinched their first championship in 88 years.
- Tennis: In a 2023 interview with a Peruvian Catholic publication, Prevost described himself as a “casual but enthusiastic” tennis player, noting, “Since leaving Peru I have had few occasions to practice, so I am looking forward to getting back on the court — if I ever find the time.”
- Soccer: During his years in Peru, Prevost also became a fan of Alianza Lima, one of the country’s most popular soccer clubs. He attended several of their matches and frequently spoke about sports as a “universal language of joy and community.”
Source: Vatican News, RPP Noticias, Peru
Balancing Leadership with Humility
Though he now leads the global Catholic Church, Pope Leo XIV has made clear that he intends to stay grounded. His lifelong commitment to service, simplicity, and compassion reflects the values instilled in him by his Midwestern upbringing.
His close family ties remain important, including with his brothers:
- Louis Prevost, a military veteran now living in Florida
- John Prevost, a former Catholic school principal who still lives in Illinois
Together, the family has celebrated Robert’s rise not as a political or celebrity moment, but as a testament to faith, perseverance, and purpose.
A Symbol of Unity and Hometown Pride
The excitement surrounding Pope Leo XIV’s election is not limited to religious communities. In Chicago, his story has become a source of civic pride. City residents have embraced their hometown native not only as a spiritual leader but also as a fellow Chicagoan whose values and personality reflect the resilience and diversity of the city itself.
“He’s one of us,” said a parishioner outside St. Mary’s. “He might be in Rome, but his heart will always be in Chicago.”
Conclusion: A Pontiff with Deep Roots
Pope Leo XIV’s personal story adds a layer of relatability to his global leadership. From cheering on the White Sox to studying in South Side churches, his journey reflects the powerful blend of local heritage and global mission.
While he now resides in Vatican City, he remains deeply connected to the city that shaped him. His upbringing, family, and sports fandom offer a humanizing look at a spiritual figure who embodies both humility and conviction.
As the world adjusts to a new era of papal leadership, Pope Leo XIV’s South Side story reminds us that even the most influential leaders often start with the simplest roots: faith, family, and a hometown team.
