Pope Leo XIV Offers Cryptic Response on White Sox Playoff Chances
Pope Leo XIV, a Chicago-born fan of the White Sox, playfully dodged a reporter's question about the team's improbable playoff return while on his plane to France, responding with a smile and a non-committal statement.

Boise, ID, September 26, 2026 —
Pope Leo XIV, known for his Chicago roots and expressed affinity for the White Sox baseball team, offered a lighthearted deflection when questioned about the team’s current playoff prospects. The exchange occurred while the Pontiff was en route to France.
A reporter on board the papal aircraft posed a question regarding the White Sox, who are currently in a position for a potential playoff return. The Pope, Chicago-born and a recognized supporter of the baseball club, responded with a smile. His statement was characterized as non-committal, indicating that specifics on his views of the team’s chances were not disclosed. The exact words of his response were not provided, but the interaction was described as playful.
Pope Leo XIV’s connection to Chicago and his interest in the White Sox have been noted previously. The team’s potential playoff appearance this season has drawn attention, prompting the reporter’s query during the papal journey. The Pope’s diplomatic yet somewhat evasive answer suggests a preference for maintaining a light tone on sporting matters during official travel, or perhaps a desire to avoid specific predictions. Further details regarding the Pope’s itinerary in France were not part of this interaction.
Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.kivitv.com, see more information here.
