Overview

• Italian right-wing newspapers accuse Emmanuel Macron of attempting to influence the papal conclave to favor French candidates, particularly Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline.
• Macron reportedly held a lunch in Rome with four French cardinals and dined with Andrea Riccardi, founder of the influential Sant’Egidio community, raising suspicions of coordinated efforts.
• The allegations are fueled by tensions between Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, with Italian media framing the claims within broader France–Italy political rivalries.
• The Vatican has reiterated that only the 135 cardinal electors will vote in secrecy during the conclave, dismissing the possibility of external interference.
• While the reports remain unverified, speculation persists, including rumors of French support for other candidates like Cardinal Matteo Zuppi.