Pope Leo XIV backs USA ahead of FIFA World Cup

Pope Leo XIV has publicly expressed his support for the United States national football team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Pope, who holds dual American and Peruvian citizenship, clarified his stance while traveling to Spain.
Why it matters
The Pope's public interest in sports and his personal background add a unique cultural dimension to the upcoming global tournament.
Pope Leo XIV has thrown his support behind the United States ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, offering a boost to the cohost nation as the tournament prepares to get underway on June 11.
The report focuses on the Pope's personal comments regarding sports and does not take a political stance.
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