Additional Coverage:
- Pope shows his sense of humor as he admits he has stiff competition with Bad Bunny in Spain (irishstar.com)
Pope Leo Lightheartedly Acknowledges Bad Bunny’s Popularity During Spain Visit
During his trip to Spain this weekend, Pope Leo humorously recognized the stiff competition he faces for attention from global music sensation Bad Bunny. Speaking to reporters aboard the papal plane en route to Madrid, the first American pope reflected on the surge of spiritual interest among young Spaniards but conceded that the Grammy-winning artist might be the bigger draw.
“If they have to choose between seeing Bad Bunny or the Pope, I think many will choose Bad Bunny,” the pontiff joked. “But I believe some will come to see the Pope, and that says something.”
The Pope’s visit includes stops in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands, where he aims to promote unity in a country grappling with political divisions and challenges within the Catholic Church.
Despite the solemn nature of his mission, Pope Leo showed a playful side when discussing sports with journalists. Addressing the recent decision to relocate the Chicago Bears’ stadium plans to Hammond, Indiana, he quipped, “That’s out of my pay scale,” when asked about comforting disappointed Illinois fans.
Looking ahead to the FIFA World Cup, the Pope confirmed his support for the United States. When pressed on Spain’s intense football rivalries, he surprised some by declaring, “The Pope is for all teams, but Prevost is Real Madrid,” referencing his birth name, Robert Prevost.
In a broader conversation, Pope Leo touched on pressing global issues, including conflicts in Ukraine and Lebanon, and reiterated his view that the Church’s traditional “just war” doctrine is outdated.
Commemorating the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, he shared a personal connection, telling a French journalist, “My father was there,” and expressing hope to visit Normandy someday.
The Pope’s blend of humor, personal insight, and thoughtful commentary marks a memorable visit as he engages with Spain’s diverse cultural landscape.