Surprise Election of American Robert Francis Prevost as New Pope Defies Betting Odds - (2025)

Updated: 18/05/2025

After the passing of Pope Francis on April 21, the anticipation and speculation surrounding the selection of the next pope reached a high level. Betting odds played a significant role in predicting the potential candidates for this esteemed position. Interestingly, online bets heavily favored Cardinal Pietro Parolin as the likely successor to Pope Francis. However, the outcome of the papal conclave surprised many as American Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the new Pope, despite having only a 2% chance according to multiple betting markets.

Cardinals as Potential Candidates

Among the notable cardinals considered to be the next pope were Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, Matteo Maria Zuppi, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, and Cardinal Peter Erdo. Each of these candidates brought unique qualities, backgrounds, and experiences to their potential papacy, making the selection process intriguing and unpredictable.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin: A Vatican Diplomat

Cardinal Pietro Parolin, an Italian national aged 70, served as a Vatican diplomat, handling crucial diplomatic relations and global engagements on behalf of the Catholic Church. Known for his role as a compromise candidate between progressive and conservative factions within the Church, Parolin brought a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.

Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle: The “Asian Francis”

Hailing from the Philippines, Cardinal Luis Antonio Gokim Tagle, aged 67, earned the nickname “the Asian Francis” due to his strong commitment to social justice and mirroring the values championed by Pope Francis. As a former archbishop of Manila, Tagle represented the hopes of many for a more inclusive and socially conscious papacy.

Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson: A Voice for Africa

With a Ghanaian background and at the age of 76, Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson emerged as a potential pope who could represent the African continent and its growing influence within the Catholic Church. As the president of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace, Turkson's experiences in advocating for social justice and equality resonated with many.

Matteo Maria Zuppi: The “Italian Bergoglio”

Italian Archbishop Matteo Maria Zuppi, aged 69, earned the moniker “the Italian Bergoglio” due to his close alignment with the principles and actions of Pope Francis. Zuppi's focus on serving marginalized communities, such as migrants and the poor, showcased his dedication to the Church's mission of compassion and solidarity.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa: Advocating for Peace

As the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem and an Italian national at the age of 59, Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa brought a unique perspective to the papal candidacy. Known for his efforts to promote peace in the Middle East and address challenging geopolitical issues, Pizzaballa's leadership was seen as an opportunity for the Church to engage more actively in global affairs.

Cardinal Peter Erdo: A Pragmatic Conservative

Sharing Hungarian nationality at the age of 72, Cardinal Peter Erdo embodied the qualities of a pragmatic conservative leader within the Church. As a former president of the Council of Bishops Conferences of Europe, Erdo's balanced approach to theological issues and his ability to navigate differing viewpoints positioned him as a potential compromise candidate.

In conclusion, the selection of the next pope is a complex process that involves a careful consideration of various factors, including candidates' backgrounds, ideologies, and ability to lead the global Catholic community. While betting odds provided an initial glimpse into the potential successors, the ultimate decision by the cardinals during the papal conclave showcased the unpredictable nature of papal elections and the importance of diverse perspectives in shaping the future of the Church.

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