Overview

• The Vatican has confirmed that the conclave to elect the next pope will begin on May 7, 2025, following a Pro Eligendo Pontifice Mass in the morning.
• A total of 135 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote, with 80% of them appointed by Pope Francis, signaling a potential progressive majority.
• The Sistine Chapel has been sealed off for preparations, and the cardinals will deliberate and vote in strict secrecy, requiring a two-thirds majority to elect the new pope.
• Cardinal Angelo Becciu's participation in the conclave remains unresolved, with Vatican documents presented to challenge his eligibility while he insists on his right to vote.
• Key candidates for the papacy include Matteo Zuppi, Luis Antonio Tagle, and Pietro Parolin, reflecting divisions between progressive and moderate factions within the Church.