Next Pope Odds: Pietro Parolin Emerges as Leading Contender After Pope Francis’ Death

The race is now on to be named next pope and as such, now is a great time to check out the best bookmaker betting odds for the papal succession, leading Irish betting sites Boylesports giving all new customers an excellent welcome bonus as well as some great ongoing promotions. 

 

Next Pope Odds: Pietro Parolin Emerges as Leading Contender After Pope Francis’ Death

 

Church Enters Period of Mourning and Transition

The Catholic Church has entered a solemn period of reflection following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 at Casa Santa Marta within the Vatican. His death comes shortly after his release from Gemelli Hospital in Rome, where he had been receiving care for pneumonia and a complex lung infection since February.

The Argentine pontiff’s twelve-year tenure was characterised by humility, a drive for reform, and a strong emphasis on social justice. His papacy left a lasting mark on the modern Church and touched millions across the globe.

 

Declining Health Prompted Quiet Planning

Francis had long battled respiratory ailments, undergoing various medical procedures and cancelling a number of public engagements in recent years. His deteriorating condition had already prompted quiet contingency planning within Vatican circles, particularly with the Holy Year set to conclude in January 2026.

Now, with the Holy See vacant, the focus turns to the College of Cardinals, who will gather in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new leader. A two-thirds majority vote is required to appoint the next pontiff.

 

Parolin Leads the Field of Successor Candidates

As speculation mounts, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican’s Secretary of State since 2013, has emerged as the current frontrunner to succeed Francis. At best odds of 6/4, Parolin has an implied 40% chance of ascending to the papacy.

Aged 70, Parolin brings extensive diplomatic expertise and a reputation for theological moderation. His involvement in key Vatican negotiations and close alignment with Francis’ reform agenda make him an appealing candidate for those seeking continuity.

 

Tagle a Strong Progressive Alternative

Second in the betting markets is Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of the Philippines, who is available at odds of 13/5. Aged 67, Tagle shares much of Francis’ progressive vision, advocating for inclusivity and compassion, particularly towards marginalised groups.

With a background in global evangelisation and a strong presence in Asia—where Catholicism is rapidly expanding—Tagle’s candidacy could represent both ideological and geographical evolution for the Church.

 

Scola No Longer Considered a Contender

Once viewed as a serious contender in the 2013 conclave, Cardinal Angelo Scola of Italy has now faded from the conversation. At 83, Scola has surpassed the voting age limit of 80, making his election highly improbable despite still being eligible in theory.

Though canon law does allow for a non-cardinal to be chosen, such occurrences remain exceptionally rare in modern times.

 

Turkson Carries African Hopes

Ghana’s Cardinal Peter Turkson is another name in the mix, currently priced at 12/1. Known for his work on economic justice and environmental issues, Turkson has long been a prominent voice in Church governance.

At 76, his age could be seen as a disadvantage, yet his leadership experience and appeal among African Catholics—whose influence within the global Church continues to grow—cannot be dismissed lightly.

With preparations for the conclave now under way, the Catholic world waits to see who will be chosen to lead the Church through its next chapter. Whether it’s a candidate of continuity or change, the decision will shape the future of one of the world’s most enduring institutions.