Stories

Did Pope Leo really wear a Chicago White Sox Hat?

Pope Leo XIV, the first American-born pope and a native of Chicago, was photographed wearing a Chicago White Sox baseball cap during a public Vatican event. In June 2025, the pontiff was smiling and greeting newlyweds while sporting the black and white hat of his hometown baseball team. 

The image quickly went viral on social media and in news coverage because it broke with the usual visual expectations of papal attire. He was seen combining tradition with a light-hearted nod to local culture. 

What’s the story behind Pope Leo’s White Sox hat?

The viral moment didn’t happen in a vacuum. Here’s what’s going on:

Pope Leo’s Chicago Roots
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, grew up in Dolton, on Chicago’s South Side. He was in a community deeply connected to both Catholic life and the city’s sports culture. 

Pope Leo: a Lifelong White Sox Fan
Long before becoming pope, Leo was a White Sox supporter, attending games as a young fan. Footage includes his participation in the 2005 World Series in Chicago, where his team won the title and broke an 88-year-old drought. His brother confirmed his allegiance to the Sox and not the rival Cubs.

The Viral Image
On June 11, 2025, Pope Leo put on his White Sox hat. From there, photos and videos of the moment spread quickly online, with fans and media cheering the genuine cultural crossover. 

This wasn’t just a snapshot, but symbolic:

• It connected a global religious leader with everyday American culture

• It highlighted his Chicago identity

• It sparked joy and conversation across sports and faith communities alike

It’s a rare moment when spiritual leadership and a sports fandom both tell a story of belonging.

A new friendly Chicago rivalry in the Church?

Here’s where the fun comes in: this morning, Pope Leo appointed Ronald Hicks as Archbishop of New York, a self-described Cubs fan. A mirror of the classic Chicago baseball rivalry is now reflected in the relationship between two of the most significant figures in the Catholic Church today. 

Imagine papal gatherings where theological depth meets playful sports banter! Whether you root for the North Side or the South Side, it’s all part of the rich tapestry of Chicago life, which is now shared on the global stage of the Church. 

Why do these stories matter?

Both stories matter because they illustrate how faith and culture can intersect in unexpected ways, prompting people to engage in a conversation about identity. 

Belonging has always been at the forefront of our faith, to the point where the Word became flesh and dwelt among us. In a culture that constantly struggles to be authentic, the Christian worldview offers a counteroffer. Identity itself, Jesus Christ, reaches to us, even in the most secular aspects, such as sports.