FALSE: A YouTube video claims that Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has been elected as the new pope, taking the name “Pope Francis II” following a papal conclave in Vatican City.
FACT: The Vatican has not elected Cardinal Tagle as pope. Pope Leo XIV is the legitimate new pope, elected in May 2025 after the resignation of Pope Francis.
Pope Leo XIV is the first American-born pope, known for his missionary work and commitment to social justice.
His election followed the traditional conclave process, confirmed by white smoke, the Habemus Papam declaration, and Vatican announcements.
False claims like this often spread during transitions in papal leadership.
To verify authenticity, rely only on official Vatican sources and credible media outlets. Misinformation distorts global religious discourse and misleads the faithful.
