Pope Leo XIV Named Honorary Member of Real Madrid

The board of Real Madrid announced that Pope Leo XIV has been appointed an honorary member of the club. The decision, disclosed on 11 June 2026, follows the Pope’s visit to the Santiago Bernabéu stadium on 8 June, where he met with club president Florentino Pérez and the local Catholic community.

Real Madrid said the honour reflects the club’s respect for a figure who "represents billions of people and promotes peace, solidarity and justice" worldwide. A limited‑edition jersey bearing the Pope’s name and the Roman numeral XIV was also unveiled as part of the commemoration.

The appointment carries symbolic significance for the football world and highlights the club’s engagement with global cultural and religious leaders.