These are the cardinal favorites to become the new Pope, according to the betting odds
After the death of Pope Francis, the world is looking ahead to the conclave. Who are the cardinal favorites to become the new leader of the Catholic Church?
With the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff in history, the Catholic Church is preparing for one of its most solemn and eagerly awaited moments: the election of its new leader.
As preparations for the conclave progress, bookmakers already have their favorites among the 124 cardinal electors who will vote in the Sistine Chapel.
Among the most talked-about names are:
Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy): Currently Secretary of State of the Vatican, Parolin is the frontrunner thanks to his extensive diplomatic experience and closeness to the Roman Curia.
Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines): With strong support in Asia and Latin America, his charisma and pastoral vision could boost his candidacy.
Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy): Known for his work on social issues and his closeness to the pastoral model of Pope Francis.
Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea): Representing the more conservative wing of the Church, he enjoys the support of traditionalist sectors.
Although the final outcome is often unpredictable, history has shown that the conclave can surprise, as happened in 2013 with the election of then-Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio.
The cardinals will meet in the coming days under strict secrecy and prayer, searching for a successor capable of meeting the challenges of a global Church in transformation.
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