Real Madrid names Pope Leo XIV honorary member
Real Madrid CF has named Pope Leo XIV an honorary member of the club, the highest distinction awarded by the Spanish football giants, reports a Qazinform News Agency correspondent.
The decision was approved by Real Madrid's Board of Directors during a meeting chaired by club president Florentino Pérez on June 11.
In an official statement, the club said the move reflects its admiration for the pontiff's global influence and values.
“In this way, Real Madrid expresses its admiration and recognition for a universal figure who represents billions of people and promotes peace, solidarity, and justice in the world,” the club said.
Real Madrid also highlighted Pope Leo XIV's recent visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
“His visit to the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium on June 8, 2026, was an honor for Real Madrid and will forever remain as one of the most moving moments in our history,” the statement added.
The honorary membership is the highest recognition granted by the club and has traditionally been reserved for distinguished figures with a special connection to Real Madrid.
The announcement comes amid a busy summer for the Spanish side, which recently completed the signing of Spanish international defender Marc Cucurella from Chelsea FC in a deal reportedly worth around $70 million, including bonuses. The 27-year-old left back signed a six-year contract and is expected to play a key role in the club's ongoing squad rebuild under newly appointed head coach José Mourinho.
Earlier, Qazinform News Agency reported that Kazakhstan's Alexandr Vinokurov, Olympic champion and General Manager of XDS Astana Team, presented the team jersey to Pope Leo XIV.
