Live from the Vatican

All Papabili

As of May 7, 2025, the Vatican is preparing for a papal conclave to elect a new pope following the death of Pope Francis. A total of 135 cardinal electors from 71 countries are eligible to vote in this conclave. However, not all 135 electors will participate, as some have opted not to attend or are unable to do so due to health reasons. Notably, Cardinal Vinko Puljić initially announced he would not participate but later decided to attend after receiving medical clearance.

The cardinal electors are divided into three orders: cardinal bishops, cardinal priests, and cardinal deacons. The order of precedence among them is determined by their rank and the date of their appointment as cardinals. The conclave will commence in the Sistine Chapel, where the cardinals will cast their votes to elect the next pope.

While a comprehensive list of all 135 eligible cardinal electors is available on the Wikipedia page for the 2025 papal conclave , here

Some notable cardinals who are expected to participate are:

Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (USA)*

  • Age: 69
  • Current Role: Prefect of the Dicastery for the Bishops
  • Why He’s Considered: From he Americas, he spent many years as a missionary in Peru before being elected head of the Augustinians for two consecutive terms. As head of the Dicastery, he participated in the most recent Apostolic Journeys and in both sessions of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops. *Elected Pope on May 8, 2025

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)

  • Age: 67
  • Current Role: Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization
  • Why He’s Considered: Known as the “Asian Francis,” Tagle is celebrated for his humility, pastoral sensitivity, and global outreach. His election would mark the first pope from Asia and signal continuity with Pope Francis’s progressive vision.

Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)

  • Age: 69
  • Current Role: President of the Italian Episcopal Conference
  • Why He’s Considered: A close ally of Pope Francis, Zuppi has led peace initiatives in Ukraine and is seen as a bridge-builder. His diplomatic acumen and moderate stance make him a strong candidate for those seeking continuity and reform.

Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France)

  • Age: 66
  • Current Role: Archbishop of Marseille
  • Why He’s Considered: Aveline is gaining attention for his pastoral approach and openness to dialogue. Although his Italian proficiency has been questioned, his recent demonstration of reading Italian during a Mass in Rome alleviated concerns.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)

  • Age: 70
  • Current Role: Vatican Secretary of State
  • Why He’s Considered: As the most senior cardinal bishop under 80, Parolin is expected to preside over the conclave. His extensive diplomatic experience and moderate views position him as a potential unifying figure. However, recent critiques regarding his health and past decisions have sparked debate.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)

  • Age: 60
  • Current Role: Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem
  • Why He’s Considered: A Franciscan friar with deep experience in the Holy Land, Pizzaballa is respected for his ecumenical efforts and leadership in a region of significant religious importance.

Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary)

  • Age: 72
  • Current Role: Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest
  • Why He’s Considered: A theological conservative, Erdő has been a vocal critic of secularism and advocates for traditional Church teachings. His candidacy appeals to those desiring a return to doctrinal orthodoxy.

Cardinal Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar)

  • Age: 76
  • Current Role: Archbishop of Yangon
  • Why He’s Considered: Bo is noted for his outspoken stance against the military junta in Myanmar and his advocacy for religious freedom. His election would highlight the Church’s commitment to persecuted communities.

Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)

  • Age: 66
  • Current Role: Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops
  • Why He’s Considered: Grech is recognized for his emphasis on synodality and unity within the Church. His leadership in synodal processes positions him as a candidate for those seeking a more inclusive Church.

Key cardinals eligible to vote in the 2025 papal conclave, listed by continent. Note that this list is not exhaustive, as the full list can change.

Europe (Italy, France, Spain, etc.)

  1. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy) – Archbishop of Bologna

  2. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy) – Vatican Secretary of State

  3. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France) – Archbishop of Marseille

  4. Cardinal Marc Ouellet (Canada) – Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops

  5. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization

  6. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re (Italy) – Dean of the College of Cardinals

  7. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis (Italy) – Vicar of Rome

  8. Cardinal Francesco Montenegro (Italy) – Archbishop of Agrigento

  9. Cardinal Raymond Burke (USA) – Former Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura

  10. Cardinal Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar) – Archbishop of Yangon

  11. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta) – Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops

  12. Cardinal Anders Arborelius (Sweden) – Bishop of Stockholm

  13. Cardinal Jean-Pierre Ricard (France) – Archbishop Emeritus of Bordeaux

Asia

  1. Cardinal Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar) – Archbishop of Yangon

  2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines) – Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization

  3. Cardinal Peter Turland (India) – Archbishop of Ranchi

  4. Cardinal Thomas Collins (Canada) – Archbishop of Toronto

  5. Cardinal Ignatius Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo (Indonesia) – Archbishop of Jakarta

Africa

  1. Cardinal Peter Turkson (Ghana) – Former Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development

  2. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Congo) – Archbishop of Kinshasa

  3. Cardinal John Onaiyekan (Nigeria) – Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja

  4. Cardinal Dieudonné Nzapalainga (Central African Republic) – Archbishop of Bangui

Latin America

  1. Cardinal Juan José Omella (Spain) – Archbishop of Barcelona

  2. Cardinal Mario Aurelio Poli (Argentina) – Archbishop of Buenos Aires

  3. Cardinal Odilo Pedro Scherer (Brazil) – Archbishop of São Paulo

  4. Cardinal Leonardo Ulrich Steiner (Brazil) – Archbishop of Manaus

  5. Cardinal Sergio da Rocha (Brazil) – Archbishop of Brasília

  6. Cardinal Ricardo Blázquez Pérez (Spain) – Archbishop of Valladolid

  7. Cardinal Luis Ladaria Ferrer (Spain) – Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith

North America

  1. Cardinal Timothy Dolan (USA) – Archbishop of New York

  2. Cardinal Blaise Cupich (USA) – Archbishop of Chicago

  3. Cardinal Joseph Tobin (USA) – Archbishop of Newark

  4. Cardinal Sean O’Malley (USA) – Archbishop of Boston

  5. Cardinal Wilton Gregory (USA) – Archbishop of Washington, D.C.

Oceania

  1. Cardinal George Pell (Australia) – Former Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy

  2. Cardinal John Dew (New Zealand) – Archbishop of Wellington

  3. Cardinal Vincent Nichols (UK) – Archbishop of Westminster

Notable Names to Watch

Some cardinals are frequently considered papabili (those who might become pope), based on their positions within the Church, theological outlook, and diplomatic roles. These include:

  • Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)

  • Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)

  • Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France)

  • Cardinal Raymond Burke (USA)

  • Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)

  • Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)

Special Notes

  • The College of Cardinals’ age limit for electability is 80. Any cardinal who reaches the age of 80 before the start of the conclave will no longer be able to vote.

A closer look at some of the leading papabili and notable cardinals eligible to vote in the 2025 papal conclave, along with their backgrounds, leadership roles, and potential influence in the election:

1. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines)

  • Age: 67

  • Current Role: Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization

  • Why He’s Considered: Tagle is often described as “the Asian Francis” due to his humble demeanor, pastoral approach, and focus on social justice, particularly poverty. As an influential figure in global Catholicism, he has been an advocate for a Church that is more inclusive and focused on reaching out to marginalized communities. His candidacy could signal a shift toward the Global South, where Catholicism is rapidly growing.

  • Strengths: Global appeal, excellent communicator, progressive outlook on social issues.

  • Challenges: Some critics believe his diplomatic background may limit his effectiveness in making tough institutional reforms.

2. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi (Italy)

  • Age: 69

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Bologna, President of the Italian Episcopal Conference

  • Why He’s Considered: Zuppi has earned respect for his ability to foster reconciliation and peace. He played a pivotal role in Vatican-led peace initiatives in Ukraine and has a reputation as a bridge-builder. Zuppi’s background as a moderate progressive aligns with many of Pope Francis’s views, and his diplomatic skills make him a strong candidate for those seeking a pope who can navigate complex global and ecclesiastical challenges.

  • Strengths: Diplomatic expertise, unifying presence, ability to handle sensitive issues.

  • Challenges: Zuppi’s candidacy may face challenges from those desiring a more traditional papacy.

3. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline (France)

  • Age: 66

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Marseille

  • Why He’s Considered: Aveline is considered a strong papabile for his pastoral care and openness to dialogue with other faiths. Known for his humility and intellectual rigor, he is seen as a fresh, more progressive figure who could offer new perspectives to the papacy. His focus on interreligious dialogue and social justice could appeal to those who want a pope more attuned to the global challenges of the 21st century.

  • Strengths: Intellectual depth, ecumenical focus, appeal to progressive factions within the Church.

  • Challenges: His Italian proficiency and experience have been questioned, as he faces language barriers and limited Vatican experience.

4. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)

  • Age: 70

  • Current Role: Vatican Secretary of State

  • Why He’s Considered: As the most senior cardinal bishop under 80, Parolin is a key figure in the Vatican’s diplomatic efforts. His deep understanding of Vatican politics, coupled with his moderate and pragmatic outlook, make him a stabilizing candidate. While he is a Vatican insider, some argue that he may be too closely tied to the current papacy, potentially limiting the scope for change.

  • Strengths: Extensive diplomatic experience, stability, trusted within the Vatican.

  • Challenges: Criticized for being too closely associated with Pope Francis’s policies, as well as questions about his health.

5. Cardinal Mario Grech (Malta)

  • Age: 66

  • Current Role: Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops

  • Why He’s Considered: Grech is well-respected for his emphasis on synodality—the process of fostering collective decision-making and dialogue within the Church. His focus on greater inclusivity and listening to the voices of all Catholics, particularly in synodal processes, positions him as a modern candidate. His election could signal a continued focus on reform and decentralization.

  • Strengths: Strong advocate for synodality and reform, open to new ways of governance within the Church.

  • Challenges: His relatively low public profile outside of synodal circles may work against him.

6. Cardinal Raymond Burke (USA)

  • Age: 76

  • Current Role: Patron of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta, former Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura

  • Why He’s Considered: Burke is a strong conservative voice within the Church and a vocal critic of certain aspects of Pope Francis’s papacy. His candidacy would likely appeal to those seeking a return to traditional Church teachings and practices. He is admired by many in the United States and beyond for his commitment to doctrinal orthodoxy.

  • Strengths: Clear stance on doctrinal matters, appeals to traditionalists, strong leadership.

  • Challenges: His conservative views may make him a divisive figure within the Church, and he has faced criticism for his handling of sensitive issues during his time in leadership roles.

7. Cardinal Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar)

  • Age: 76

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Yangon

  • Why He’s Considered: As the first cardinal from Myanmar, Bo has been a vocal advocate for religious freedom in the face of political oppression. His election would highlight the Church’s global commitment to marginalized and persecuted communities. His presence as a papabile signals a potential shift toward leadership in the Global South and emphasizes the Church’s commitment to human rights.

  • Strengths: Advocacy for persecuted communities, ability to unite disparate voices, global perspective.

  • Challenges: Bo’s candidacy may face resistance from those who prefer candidates with more experience in Vatican diplomacy.

8. Cardinal Blase Cupich (USA)

  • Age: 74

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Chicago

  • Why He’s Considered: Cupich is known for his progressive views on social issues, including his advocacy for immigration reform and racial justice. He is a leading voice for Catholics in the United States and is known for his willingness to engage with contemporary social and political issues. His candidacy would likely appeal to those who wish to see a pope who is deeply engaged with modern social challenges.

  • Strengths: Progressive social stance, experience in leading one of the largest dioceses in the U.S., strong media presence.

  • Challenges: His progressive views may alienate more traditional factions within the Church.

9. Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu (Congo)

  • Age: 61

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Kinshasa

  • Why He’s Considered: A rising star in the Church, Ambongo is known for his strong stance on social justice and his advocacy for peace and reconciliation in the Democratic Republic of Congo. His election would underscore the growing importance of Africa within the global Church and highlight a focus on the needs of the poor and marginalized.

  • Strengths: Strong moral voice, advocate for peace and social justice, respected figure in Africa.

  • Challenges: Limited experience in Vatican politics, less recognized internationally compared to some other papabili.

10. Cardinal John Onaiyekan (Nigeria)

  • Age: 79

  • Current Role: Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja

  • Why He’s Considered: Onaiyekan is a distinguished theologian and a leader in the African Church. He has been a strong advocate for interfaith dialogue, peace, and human rights. His election could represent a shift toward a pope who is focused on the African Church and its unique challenges.

  • Strengths: Deep theological background, respected interfaith mediator, African perspective.

  • Challenges: He is nearing the age of 80 and may not be eligible to vote or be elected by the time the conclave takes place.

11. Cardinal Timothy Dolan (USA)

  • Age: 75

  • Current Role: Archbishop of New York

  • Why He’s Considered: Dolan is a high-profile figure in the American Church, known for his media presence and deep connection to American Catholic communities. He is considered a warm and approachable figure, with a focus on evangelism and doctrinal clarity. Dolan’s election could appeal to those who want a pope with a strong presence in the U.S. and a reputation for clear, conservative Catholic teaching.

  • Strengths: Charismatic speaker, media savvy, widely respected in the U.S.

  • Challenges: Some may view him as too closely tied to American political issues and may be concerned about his conservative stances on certain social issues.

12. Cardinal Juan José Omella (Spain)

  • Age: 71

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Barcelona

  • Why He’s Considered: Omella is seen as a moderate figure with a pastoral focus. He has been involved in efforts to reform the Spanish Church and has advocated for a more inclusive, synodal approach to Church governance. Omella’s candidacy could resonate with those seeking a leader who is attuned to both Spanish and global issues, while also emphasizing a pastoral and diplomatic approach.

  • Strengths: Pastoral focus, diplomatic skill, experienced Church leader.

  • Challenges: His relatively low international profile compared to some other papabili may limit his appeal to a broader audience.

13. Cardinal Sean O’Malley (USA)

  • Age: 81 (No longer electable due to age limit)

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Boston

  • Why He’s Considered: O’Malley is well-known for his work on clerical abuse reform and his focus on transparency within the Church. He has been praised for his efforts to address the abuse scandal in the U.S. and globally, and his leadership in those areas makes him a highly respected figure. However, due to his age, O’Malley is no longer a papabile for the 2025 conclave.

  • Strengths: Expertise in abuse reform, transparency advocate, moral integrity.

  • Challenges: Age disqualifies him from the upcoming conclave.

14. Cardinal Blaise Cupich (USA)

  • Age: 74

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Chicago

  • Why He’s Considered: Cupich is considered a progressive voice within the American Church, particularly on social issues like immigration, economic justice, and racial reconciliation. He is known for his advocacy for Pope Francis’s vision of a more inclusive and pastoral Church, making him a potential candidate for those who want to continue Francis’s reforms.

  • Strengths: Progressive stance, focus on social justice, engaging with contemporary issues.

  • Challenges: His progressive stance might alienate traditionalist factions within the Church, and his visibility may not be as high outside of the U.S.

15. Cardinal Leonardo Ulrich Steiner (Brazil)

  • Age: 66

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Manaus

  • Why He’s Considered: A key leader in the Amazon synod, Steiner has a strong connection to the issues facing the Church in Latin America. His focus on environmental justice, particularly in relation to the Amazon rainforest, makes him an appealing candidate for those who want a pope to address the Church’s responsibility in ecological matters. Steiner’s election could be seen as a continuation of Pope Francis’s emphasis on ecology and social justice.

  • Strengths: Strong connection to Latin America, focus on environmental and social issues.

  • Challenges: Limited international recognition compared to some other papabili.

16. Cardinal Wilton Gregory (USA)

  • Age: 75

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Washington, D.C.

  • Why He’s Considered: Gregory is the first African American cardinal and has been an influential voice in the U.S. Church. His advocacy for racial justice and his leadership in addressing the abuse crisis within the Church give him a significant moral and pastoral profile. Gregory’s candidacy could represent a shift toward a more inclusive Church that emphasizes the dignity of marginalized groups.

  • Strengths: Advocate for racial justice, first African American cardinal, moral authority.

  • Challenges: His experience and influence outside the U.S. may be seen as limited.

17. Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy)

  • Age: 70

  • Current Role: Vatican Secretary of State

  • Why He’s Considered: As the highest-ranking official in the Vatican after the pope, Parolin has extensive experience in diplomacy and international relations. His ability to handle sensitive issues and navigate the Vatican’s relationship with the wider world makes him a strong candidate. He is seen as a moderate figure, offering stability and continuity.

  • Strengths: Extensive diplomatic experience, trusted figure within the Vatican.

  • Challenges: Some see him as too closely aligned with the current papacy and may prefer a new direction.

18. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re (Italy)

  • Age: 80 (No longer electable due to age limit)

  • Current Role: Dean of the College of Cardinals

  • Why He’s Considered: Re is a long-time Vatican official who has played an important role in several papal elections, including the 2013 conclave. His deep experience within the Vatican’s administrative structure and his leadership in overseeing conclave procedures make him a highly respected figure. However, due to his age, he is no longer eligible to vote in or be elected as pope during the 2025 conclave.

  • Strengths: Vast experience, key figure in the Vatican’s administrative structure.

  • Challenges: Age disqualifies him from the conclave.

19. Cardinal Oscar Rodríguez Maradiaga (Honduras)

  • Age: 82 (No longer electable due to age limit)

  • Current Role: Archbishop Emeritus of Tegucigalpa, former head of Caritas Internationalis

  • Why He’s Considered: Rodríguez Maradiaga was once a leading figure in the Vatican’s “C9” group, which was tasked with advising Pope Francis on the reform of the Roman Curia. His deep experience in Latin American pastoral issues and his leadership in Caritas make him a key figure in the global Church. However, due to his age, he is no longer eligible for the papacy in 2025.

  • Strengths: Extensive experience in Church reform and humanitarian efforts.

  • Challenges: Age disqualifies him from the conclave.

20. Cardinal John Onaiyekan (Nigeria)

  • Age: 79

  • Current Role: Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja

  • Why He’s Considered: Onaiyekan is a highly respected theologian and a prominent African voice in the Catholic Church. He has been an advocate for interfaith dialogue, particularly between Christians and Muslims in Nigeria. His candidacy would likely appeal to those seeking a pope who can address issues of religious conflict and interfaith cooperation in Africa.

  • Strengths: Strong theological background, advocate for interfaith dialogue, respected African voice.

  • Challenges: He will not be eligible to vote or be elected in 2025 due to his age.

21. Cardinal Charles Maung Bo (Myanmar)

  • Age: 76

  • Current Role: Archbishop of Yangon

  • Why He’s Considered: Bo is an outspoken advocate for religious freedom and human rights in Myanmar, particularly in the context of the political crisis in his country. His candidacy would emphasize the global Church’s focus on persecuted communities and the need for a leader who prioritizes peace, justice, and human dignity.

  • Strengths: Advocate for human rights, leadership in a politically sensitive region.

  • Challenges: Limited visibility outside of Asia.

22. Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy)

  • Age: 60

  • Current Role: Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem

  • Why He’s Considered: Pizzaballa has a deep connection to the Holy Land and has been involved in interfaith dialogue, particularly between Christians, Jews, and Muslims. His election could symbolize a commitment to reconciliation in the Middle East, as well as a focus on the Church’s presence in the region. His candidacy might appeal to those seeking a pope with experience in one of the Church’s most sensitive and complex areas.

  • Strengths: Strong ecumenical focus, leadership in Jerusalem, experienced in interfaith dialogue.

  • Challenges: Limited profile outside the Middle East.