The conclave has begun and the bishops already consider Pietro Parolin the winner.

This Tuesday morning, the conclave began in which the successor to the late Pope Francis will be discussed and decided. Although there is still no clear winner, the bishops take for granted that the Italian Piero Parolin will be the next Pope.  An off-microphone comment captured during the morning mass at St. Peter's Basilica, a few hours before the start of the conclave, has intensified speculation about who will be the successor to Pope Francis. During the traditional Pro eligendo Pontifice mass, held in front of the 133 cardinal electors, the dean of the College of Cardinals, Giovanni Battista Re, leaned toward Cardinal Pietro Parolin and whispered: "Auguri... doppi", which in English translates to "congratulations twice over."

has been interpreted as a gesture full of symbolismit could be an early congratulation for the role Parolin will play during the conclave,Vaticanmany observers believe it could be a signal about his probable electionhas held the position of Vatican Secretary of State since 2013,have reinforced his profile as one of the main papabili,his diplomatic experience is widely recognized.worked for years in the Secretariat of State,This profile is especially valuedParolin is considered a moderate, both theologically and politically. could facilitate his acceptanceHe is credited with a key role in the administrative reforms promoted by Francis,Giovanni Battista Re"abandon any personal consideration"the atmosphere in the Vatican is already charged with expectations.