Pope Leo, a Villanova University graduate, has declined to take sides in the historic basketball rivalry between Villanova and Notre Dame, invoking papal neutrality.
The pontiff, who earned his degree from the Pennsylvania institution, addressed the matchup during a public appearance, emphasizing his role requires impartiality.
The Nova-Notre Dame rivalry, a longstanding competition in college basketball, often draws intense alumni interest. Pope Leo's refusal to pick a winner underscores the diplomatic constraints of his office.
The story was reported by Ira Gorawara for The Athletic on October 31, 2026.
