The decision will fall to the College of Cardinals, who will gather in a secret conclave to choose from among themselves the next pope—a choice that could shape the direction of the Church for decades to come. Will the next pontiff continue Francis’ focus on mercy, dialogue, and social justice? Or will the Church pivot back toward a more doctrinal, traditional path? From reformers to conservatives, from Europe to the global South, these ten cardinals stand out as potential successors—each bringing a unique background, perspective, and leadership style to one of the most powerful roles on Earth.
1. Cardinal Peter Erdő – Hungary
Cardinal Erdő is often seen as a front-runner for those within the Church who want to return to more traditional leadership. As the Archbishop of Esztergom-Budapest, he holds the highest-ranking Church position in Hungary and brings decades of theological and legal expertise. Erdő’s calm, cerebral demeanor sets him apart in a field often dominated by pastoral personalities. He has served in numerous synods and Vatican councils and is particularly respected for his grasp of canon law. A skilled academic, he earned doctorates in both theology and canon law before turning 35. He is seen as someone who could bring intellectual clarity and doctrinal firmness to a Church navigating cultural turbulence. While his more reserved personality may not capture hearts in the media spotlight, he has proven his ability to lead quietly and effectively. Erdő also represents the growing influence of Eastern Europe in Catholic politics—something many cardinals may wish to acknowledge in the next papacy.
2. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle – Philippines
Cardinal Tagle is one of the most charismatic and globally recognized Church leaders today. Known for his empathy, humility, and emotional sermons, he connects deeply with everyday Catholics. Born in Manila, Tagle rose through the ranks quickly, becoming Archbishop of Manila and later Prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples—a key Vatican role focused on missionary work. Tagle represents the face of the Church in the global South, where Catholicism continues to grow. His communication style is personal and emotionally resonant; he is often moved to tears when speaking about the poor, the suffering, or the marginalized. This vulnerability, combined with strong theological grounding, makes him a compelling candidate. He’s close to Pope Francis in both tone and vision, often emphasizing mercy, dialogue, and inclusion. His critics say he may lack the political strength to navigate the Vatican’s complex bureaucracy, but his moral authority is hard to ignore. If the cardinals seek a warm, globally popular pope to carry on Francis’ legacy, Tagle could be the one.
3. Cardinal Matteo Zuppi – Italy
Zuppi has become a rising star in Italy’s Church hierarchy and beyond. As Archbishop of Bologna and President of the Italian Bishops’ Conference, he carries significant national weight. His background with the Sant’Egidio Community—a lay Catholic group focused on peace and poverty—shapes his compassionate, socially-minded vision. Zuppi has mediated international peace talks and worked with refugees, HIV patients, and the homeless. He’s widely praised for his ability to connect social justice with deep theological reflection. Known for his warm personality and simple lifestyle, he represents a modern, people-first approach to the papacy. He often speaks about building bridges—between different ideologies, faiths, and communities. As an Italian, Zuppi would bring the papacy back to its traditional homeland, a symbolic move that might appeal to cardinals nostalgic for Rome-centered leadership. He is progressive in tone but measured in policy, making him an appealing middle-ground candidate for a divided College of Cardinals.
4. Cardinal Robert Sarah – Guinea
Cardinal Sarah represents a completely different vision for the Church’s future—one focused on restoring a sense of sacred order, silence, and traditional values. Born in Guinea, Sarah rose through the ranks to become Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship, where he emphasized the importance of liturgy rooted in history and reverence. He believes the Church has become too accommodating to modern culture and argues for a return to clear moral teaching and austere worship. His books, such as God or Nothing and The Power of Silence, are widely read among conservative Catholics. He also brings global diversity to the race, potentially becoming the first African pope in centuries. His election would signal a dramatic shift from Francis’ open, pastoral tone toward a more solemn and doctrinally rigid approach. Critics argue he may be too inflexible or divisive to unify the modern Church, but for many, his bold defense of tradition is precisely what Catholicism needs now.
5. Cardinal Christoph Schönborn – Austria
Schönborn has long been viewed as one of the Church’s great intellectuals and diplomats. A Dominican theologian and Archbishop of Vienna, he was the principal editor of the Catechism of the Catholic Church—a major accomplishment that still shapes modern Catholic teaching. He’s adept at navigating complex moral and theological issues, often bringing a compassionate, thoughtful voice to controversial topics. Unlike many conservative leaders, Schönborn has shown an openness to pastoral flexibility, particularly around issues like divorce, remarriage, and same-sex relationships, while remaining committed to Church teaching. He’s fluent in multiple languages and has decades of experience leading a major European archdiocese. While he’s approaching 80, many still view him as a potential unifier—a “safe pair of hands” who could guide the Church through turbulent times without radical shifts. If the conclave seeks someone deeply rooted in doctrine but skilled in diplomacy, Schönborn’s name may rise to the top once more.
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6. Cardinal Jean-Claude Hollerich – Luxembourg
Hollerich has become a vocal representative of the Church’s progressive wing. As Archbishop of Luxembourg and president of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union, he holds considerable influence in Europe. A Jesuit like Pope Francis, Hollerich supports synodality—an emphasis on collective decision-making in Church governance—and has called for open, honest conversations about Church teachings, including on sexuality and marriage. He argues that the Church must remain relevant in the lives of modern believers and has suggested that doctrine, while sacred, must also engage with lived human experience. While his views have sparked debate, he remains an articulate and respected figure among reform-minded cardinals. His close alignment with the spirit of Francis’ pontificate could work in his favor, though traditionalists may view him as too progressive. Regardless, his international perspective, intellectual approach, and willingness to address difficult issues keep him in the conversation.
7. Cardinal Wilton Gregory – United States
Cardinal Gregory holds a historic place in Church history as the first African American cardinal, and his influence continues to grow. As Archbishop of Washington, D.C., he leads one of the most politically and culturally significant dioceses in the United States. Known for his calm, steady leadership through crises—including the sexual abuse scandal and social unrest—Gregory is admired for his moral courage and pastoral focus. He has spoken clearly against racism, inequality, and clerical misconduct, earning widespread respect from both clergy and laity. His American background might raise questions among some cardinals wary of geopolitical perception, but his balanced, humble demeanor offsets that concern. He’s also known for valuing dialogue and unity, characteristics the Church may prioritize in its next leader. If the conclave seeks a voice of reconciliation who can hold moral authority in a polarized world, Gregory is a compelling candidate.
8. Cardinal Leonardo Sandri – Argentina
Cardinal Sandri is a seasoned Vatican insider with decades of experience in Church diplomacy. As Prefect of the Congregation for the Oriental Churches, he oversees Catholic communities in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and parts of Africa and Asia. Born in Argentina, he worked closely with Pope John Paul II and played a key role during turbulent years in the Curia. Fluent in multiple languages and sensitive to the liturgical traditions of Eastern Catholic churches, Sandri offers a global view of Catholicism. He’s widely regarded as competent and measured, though his low public profile means he’s not as well-known outside Church circles. At over 80, he may be considered too old for a long papacy, but if the conclave wants a caretaker pope who can manage a smooth transition while avoiding conflict, Sandri could fit that role. His background makes him especially appealing to cardinals seeking a calm, transitional figure.
9. Cardinal Marc Ouellet – Canada
Cardinal Ouellet is a theological heavyweight with a deep connection to both North and Latin America. He led the Vatican’s Congregation for Bishops, giving him considerable influence in selecting Church leaders worldwide. Known for his conservative views on family and sexuality, he emphasizes unity between doctrine and pastoral care. Ouellet has been a papal contender before, especially in the 2013 conclave, and he continues to be seen as a stabilizing force. His broad international experience and strong academic background in philosophy and theology add to his appeal. However, his name has recently been associated with legal proceedings in Canada, although he was cleared of wrongdoing. This association may still cast a shadow over his candidacy. Nevertheless, many cardinals respect his quiet strength and thoughtful, measured leadership—traits that may be seen as necessary in the next phase of the Church’s global journey.
10. Cardinal Angelo De Donatis – Italy
De Donatis currently serves as the Vicar of Rome, a prestigious position that places him as the pope’s delegate to the Diocese of Rome. This close working relationship with Francis has shaped his papal style—pastoral, pragmatic, and humble. Unlike some of the higher-profile cardinals, De Donatis rarely seeks the spotlight. Instead, he is known for his administrative skill and deep devotion to spiritual formation. His elevation directly to cardinal, bypassing the usual episcopal route, signals Francis’ deep trust in his judgment and character. De Donatis would likely represent continuity with the current papacy but with a quieter tone. He’s not a celebrity cleric, but his consistent, understated service could make him a palatable choice for a conclave seeking unity without noise. If the cardinals desire a steady, loyal leader wita close link to the current pope’s vision, De Donatis might be the quiet frontrunner.
Final Thought
The next conclave will not simply be about choosing a successor—it will be about choosing a direction. Will the Church double down on Pope Francis’ pastoral approach, or pivot toward doctrinal firmness and tradition? Will it look to the global South, Europe, or even North America for leadership? Each of these cardinals represents a different vision of Catholicism’s future. Regardless of who receives the white smoke, the choice will have profound implications not just for Catholics, but for the world stage.
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