The main candidates considered likely to be elected as the next pope in the 2025 papal conclave include:
- Cardinal Pietro Parolin (Italy, age 70): The Vatican Secretary of State since 2014, Parolin is a seasoned diplomat and is widely seen as a frontrunner. He is viewed as someone who would uphold Pope Francis' legacy with a more cautious and diplomatic style. His experience includes managing Vatican relations with China and Latin America
- Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle (Philippines, age 67): Known as the "Asian Francis," Tagle is recognized for his missionary spirit, emphasis on social justice, and openness toward marginalized groups including LGBTQ+ and divorced Catholics. He is the pro-prefect for the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and former archbishop of Manila. His election would mark the first Asian pope
- Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost (USA, age 69): Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops and president of the Pontifical Commission for Latin America, Prevost is a potential candidate representing the possibility of an American pope. He has extensive pastoral experience in Peru and currently oversees bishop appointments worldwide
- Cardinal Péter Erdő (Hungary, age 72): A traditionalist and archbishop of Budapest, Erdő is known for conservative views on issues like communion for divorced Catholics and blessings for gay couples. He speaks multiple languages and could appeal to cardinals wanting a return to a more traditional church direction
- Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa (Italy, age 60): Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, seen as a compromise candidate due to his ability to bridge divides in the Middle East and his prudent management of financial crises. His relatively young age might be a factor against him despite his pastoral and diplomatic skills
- Cardinal Robert Sarah (Guinea, age 79): A conservative favorite who has been critical of Pope Francis' reforms and advocates for traditional celibacy and liturgy. His candidacy is complicated by past conflicts with Francis and his advanced age
- Cardinal Marc Ouellet (Canada, age 80): Former head of the Vatican's bishops' office, Ouellet is conservative but has also appointed pastoral-minded bishops. His age might be a limiting factor
Other cardinals occasionally mentioned include Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson (Ghana, age 76), known for his work on social justice and environmental issues
. The conclave process is secretive and unpredictable, with no official campaigning. The final choice depends on complex negotiations among the 135 cardinal electors, reflecting a balance between continuity and change within the Catholic Church
