No Comment: Pope Leo XIV Dodges Questions on White Sox’s Miraculous Postseason Return

On a papal flight en route to France this Friday, September 25, 2026, a reporter posed a question that bridged the gap between the sacred and the South Side of Chicago. Asked whether his influence might have played a role in the Chicago White Sox’s improbable postseason return, Pope Leo XIV didn't offer a denial. Instead, he offered a beaming smile and a masterclass in diplomatic deflection.

"No comment," the pontiff replied, before adding a sentiment that resonated deeply with his hometown: "Great things happen in Chicago."

The Diplomacy of a "No Comment"

While technically a non-answer, the Pope's reaction has set social media ablaze. For a man who has previously found himself in the crosshairs of sports rivalries, the hesitation was telling. The pontiff—born Robert Prevost in the Chicago suburb of Dolton—is no stranger to the complexities of sporting allegiances. In June, he attempted to maintain neutrality by stating "the pope is for all teams," only to inadvertently spark tension with soccer fans in Barcelona after expressing a personal preference for Real Madrid.

That moment allowed social media to crown Real Madrid "the team of God," a label that carries weight in the world of global football. Now, as the White Sox emerge from a period of historic futility, the rumors of "holy help" are resurfacing. The White Sox officially clinched their postseason berth on Thursday, September 25, following a 9-1 victory over the Kansas City Royals, joining the Cubs in the playoffs after both teams secured their slots on Thursday.

Breaking the Cycle of Century-Loss Seasons

The White Sox's ascent is not merely a seasonal uptick; it is a statistical anomaly that defies the recent trajectory of the franchise. To understand why fans are questioning the role of divine intervention, one must look at the sheer scale of the team's recent struggles. The club has undergone a period of unprecedented decline that makes this playoff berth feel like a genuine miracle.

• Two seasons ago: The White Sox endured a 41-121 campaign, marking the most losses in the modern era of baseball.
• Last season: The team suffered 102 losses.
• The Three-Year Trend: The White Sox become the first team in MLB history to reach the playoffs after enduring two or more consecutive 100-loss seasons.

For a franchise that has spent the last few years rooted to the bottom of the standings, the transition from 100-loss seasons to postseason contention is a pivot of massive proportions. The connection between the Pope’s election in May 2025 and the team's sudden resurgence has provided the perfect narrative fuel for a fanbase that has waited since 2021 to see the team back in the hunt.

A Lifelong Loyalty: The Chicago Connection

The Pope’s allegiance to the White Sox is not a recent development for the sake of optics. His brother, John Prevost, has been vocal in clarifying the pontiff's loyalties, debunking rumors of any Cubs fandom. "He was never a Cubs fan," John told WGN-TV. "He was always a Sox fan."

This loyalty has been visible long before the current playoff run. Video from the 2005 World Series—the series that brought the South Side its first championship in 88 years—shows the future Pope in the stands during Game 1 against Houston. The White Sox organization has leaned heavily into this spiritual connection. In August, the team hosted a dedicated theme night at Rate Field, distributing Sox-themed papal hats to approximately 41,000 fans during a game against the Cincinnati Reds. The bond was further cemented when the Rev. Tom McCarthy brought a replica hat to the Vatican to present to the Pope in person.

The Pontiff’s Sporting Portfolio

While baseball remains a cornerstone of his identity, the 71-year-old pontiff maintains a diverse interest in the world of athletics. His profile reveals a man who appreciates the mechanics and competition of various disciplines:

This multidisciplinary interest suggests that while he may not have the time for professional-level competition—having once declined a quick volley with tennis star Jannik Sinner to protect the Vatican's antiques—he remains an active observer of the sporting world.

Evidence-Led Forecast: The Villanova-Notre Dame Atmosphere

While the White Sox's postseason run is the current headline, the Pope's upcoming sporting engagement provides a glimpse into his personal competitive spirit. On November 1, Villanova University will face Notre Dame in a men's and women's basketball doubleheader in Rome.

Tactical Atmosphere: Based on the Pope's own assessment, the atmosphere in Rome will be heavily skewed. Leo noted that "90% are Villanova and 10% Notre Dame," suggesting the "voice of the people of God" will be overwhelmingly in favor of his alma mater. Expect a highly partisan environment that mirrors the intensity of a high-stakes collegiate matchup, regardless of the actual on-court score.