Parolin emerges as top contender for the papal succession
Who will become the new pope after Francis's death? This question is being asked by people of faith worldwide. According to bookmakers, the leading candidate to succeed Pope Francis is Cardinal Pietro Parolin.
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. A few days ago, we reported that the leading candidate to succeed the pope was Luis Antonio Tagle from the Philippines. Right behind him was Pietro Parolin from Italy.
As reported by the Italian newspaper La Repubblica, the Italian cardinal, the current Secretary of State of the Holy See, is currently regarded by bookmakers as the favourite to become the next pope after Francis.
The new pope according to bookmakers
Parolin, who has served as the Secretary of State since 2013, has gained recognition for his diplomatic skills and experience in managing the Church. His candidacy is seen as a continuation of the current pope's policies, which may attract supporters of stability in the Vatican.
Bookmakers note an increase in bets in his favour, which may suggest that he is being seriously considered as a successor.
The British bookmaker William Hill offers odds of 2.50 for Parolin's selection. Currently, Antonio Tagle from the Philippines is in second place with odds of 3.00. Matteo Zuppi from Italy rounds out the top three with odds of 7.00, according to the newspaper.
In France, the topic of the future pope even made it to the Tech&Co program broadcast by BFM TV. The hosts asked ChatGPT to indicate a potential successor to Pope Francis.
Following the footsteps of British bookmakers, artificial intelligence also bets on Parolin, who has a 27.6% probability of becoming the next pope.
How is the pope elected?
The election of a new pope is decided at a conclave, which is attended by cardinals who have not reached the age of 80 on the day of the pope's death or resignation.
Each cardinal votes on a ballot, writing the candidate's name. To become pope, a candidate must receive at least two-thirds of the votes. If the required majority is not achieved after three days of voting, there is a one-day pause for prayer and reflection, after which voting continues.
After each vote, the ballots are burned in a special stove in the Sistine Chapel, from which smoke rises (black - no pope elected, white - pope elected).
