The Next Pope Could Be From The Philippines, According To Odds From Gambling Nerd

Following Pope Francis’s passing, the Catholic Church finds itself at another crucial historical junction. As more than a billion Catholics around the globe grieve and reflect, the College of Cardinals is gearing up to convene in Vatican City for the sacred task of selecting the next Pope. With the world’s eyes now fixed on the upcoming conclave, speculation is heating up about who will carry on the legacy of Pope Francis, a leader celebrated for his humility, reformative spirit, and compassion. One of the frontrunners is Filipino Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, whose name is gaining traction in public sentiment and even betting circles. According to Gambling Nerd’s top 10 candidates to become the Pope and their odds, Tagle has made significant strides in recent months, positioning himself as a potential trailblazer and possibly the first Asian to lead the Catholic Church.

Luis Antonio Tagle

Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, has emerged as a top candidate to succeed Pope Francis. Renowned for his humility and progressive views, Tagle is often affectionately dubbed the “Asian Francis,” reflecting his strong alignment with Pope Francis’ social justice, compassion, and inclusivity principles. His ascent has been steady, from Archbishop of Manila to Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples – a position that oversees missionary efforts worldwide. In January 2025, during the inaugural International Marian Festival in Antipolo, Cardinal Tagle urged Catholics to embrace hope and faith, reminding the audience that “hope is not just optimism; it is a gift from God.” At the 2023 World Youth Day in Lisbon, he also inspired young people to become what he tagged “influencers of Jesus,” urging them to harness digital platforms to share love, truth, and compassion for others. His remarkable ability to connect with people across different generations and cultures has positioned him as a strong contender for the papacy. Although the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines has advised against campaigning for him, it’s tough to overlook the rising support and the hope that this humble son of Cavite might one day lead the global Church. And it’s not just Vatican insiders who are taking notice. A recent report from Gambling Nerd places him at even-money odds, making him the favorite in the global conversation about the next Pope.

Cardinal Pietro Parolin

Aged 70, Cardinal Pietro Parolin has served as the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013. With a diplomatic career spanning over thirty years, he has represented the Holy See in countries like Nigeria, Mexico, and Venezuela. Parolin is well-regarded for his diplomatic skills and has played a crucial role in the Vatican’s international relations. His leadership style is marked by moderation and a dedication to dialogue, which aligns perfectly with the Church’s need for unity and continuity. As the most senior cardinal bishop under 80, he’s expected to take the lead in the upcoming conclave.

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu

Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, 65, is the Archbishop of Kinshasa and a significant figure in the African Catholic community. A member of the Capuchin Order, he has been a passionate advocate for social justice, environmental protection, and human rights in the Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2019, Pope Francis elevated him to cardinal, and in 2020, he became part of the Council of Cardinal Advisers. His leadership showcases a profound commitment to the Church’s mission in Africa and an emphasis on moral theology.

Cardinal Peter Turkson

Cardinal Peter Turkson is a 76-year-old from Ghana who has become a prominent advocate for economic and environmental justice within the Church. He was the first Prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development from 2017 to 2021. He was also Chancellor of the Pontifical Academies of Sciences and Social Sciences in 2022. Turkson’s mission highlights the Church’s responsibility to tackle pressing global issues like climate change and social inequality. With his wealth of experience, he stands out as a candidate who effectively connects traditional values with the challenges of our modern world.

The Conclave

Electing a new pope is one of the most revered and secretive ceremonies in the Catholic Church. The Sistine Chapel – adorned with Michelangelo’s breathtaking frescoes – will play host to the College of Cardinals. Here, 135 electors under 80 will convene for the age-old selection ritual. Cut off from the outside world, these cardinals will engage in several rounds of voting, needing a two-thirds majority to select the next pontiff. Before each vote, there’s a moment for prayer, reflection, and thoughtful discussion as the cardinals seek divine guidance in finding a leader who can navigate the global Church through today’s intricate challenges. While platforms like Gambling Nerd might provide insights into potential frontrunners and changing odds, the final decision rests on spiritual discernment rather than public opinion. This choice isn’t only political but carries profound pastoral, theological, and global significance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are Cardinal Tagle’s chances of becoming the next Pope?

According to Gambling Nerd, Tagle is currently the favorite, with even odds suggesting a 50% chance.

Has there ever been a black pope?

Yes, there has. According to The Catholic Church’s records, it has had at least one Pope of African descent: Pope Victor I, who served from around 189 to 199 A.D.

When will the new Pope be elected?

Although the specific date hasn’t been revealed yet, the conclave is set to kick off soon. The process wraps up in just a few days, but can take longer if a two-thirds majority vote is not achieved.

Conclusion

As the Catholic Church finds itself at another pivotal moment, selecting a new pope holds immense importance. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has emerged as a frontrunner, but there are also other top contenders, each arguably worthy in their own right. While the final decision rests with the cardinal electors, the worldwide Catholic community is watching closely, hoping for a leader who can steer the Church into its next era in a constantly changing world.

Author Profile

Adam Regan: Deputy Editor

Features and account management. 3 years media experience. Previously covered features for online and print editions.

Email Adam@MarkMeets.com