Overview

• On May 7, 2025, the Conclave officially began with 133 cardinal electors gathering in the Sistine Chapel to choose Pope Francis's successor.
• The first vote resulted in black smoke at 9:00 PM, signaling that no candidate achieved the required two-thirds majority for election.
• Delays in proceedings were attributed to a 45-minute meditation by Cardinal Raniero Cantalamessa and logistical challenges posed by the diverse composition of electors.
• This Conclave features a record number of 133 electors, exceeding the traditional limit of 120 due to granted exceptions, with 89 votes needed to elect the new pope.
• Voting will continue with up to four ballots daily until a candidate is chosen, with the next fumata expected following morning and afternoon sessions on May 8.