Overview

• Pope Francis’s funeral on April 26, 2025, marked the end of a simplified nine-day mourning period, reflecting his reformist vision.
• An estimated 200,000–250,000 mourners and over 50 world leaders attended the ceremonies in Rome, including President Donald Trump and Melania Trump.
• President Trump faced widespread criticism for wearing a blue suit instead of traditional black funeral attire, which many deemed disrespectful.
• Trump and Melania were also observed stepping over a sacred rug beneath the Pope’s coffin, an act noted as a breach of protocol by attendees.
• The conclave to elect Pope Francis’s successor is set to begin in early May, following the conclusion of the novendiale mourning period.