During a recent flight to Spain, Pope Leo XIV publicly acknowledged that he is in competition with another high-profile entertainment figure, Bad Bunny, who is set to perform two shows in Madrid as part of his ten-concert tour. The American pope commented on this phenomenon while addressing reporters aboard the papal plane, highlighting the impact of Bad Bunny's allure on the youth of Spain.

Pope Leo XIV reflected on the phenomenon of young people experiencing a spiritual awakening during his visit, indicating they are searching for meaning in their lives. He mused that the presence of a religious figure, such as himself, might help to "awaken" something within them. Acknowledging the popularity of Bad Bunny, Pope Leo stated, "If they are confronted with the question 'Do you want to go see Bad Bunny or do you want to see the pope?' I think many will choose Bad Bunny. But I think there will also be a few here to see the pope. And that says something, you know."

The pope is embarking on a weeklong visit to Spain, with plans to make stops in Madrid, Barcelona, and the Canary Islands. His visit aims to convey a message of unity in a politically and socially polarized nation, particularly in light of various political and church scandals.

In addition to discussing the spiritual climate in Spain, Pope Leo XIV was also posed questions about his beloved Chicago Bears, following news of a potential move to Hammond, Indiana. Responding to queries about his feelings on the matter, the Chicago-born pope humorously remarked, "That’s out of my pay (scale)." This light-hearted reference showcased his approachable demeanor while addressing serious subjects.

When queried about the upcoming World Cup, Pope Leo confirmed his support for the United States team. However, he also expressed a fondness for soccer in Spain when asked about whether he would support Real Madrid or FC Barcelona. He stated, “That’s easy. The pope is for all teams, but Prevost is Real Madrid,” a nod to his birth name and personal preferences.

Overall, Pope Leo XIV’s trip to Spain and his insightful comments about the cultural intersection of faith and entertainment reflect an awareness of contemporary issues and the diverse interests of a young audience today. His openness about competing with a celebrity like Bad Bunny portrays a relatable aspect of his papacy while addressing the need for spiritual engagement in modern society.