Who are the main candidates to succeed Pope Francis

The death of Pope Francis at 88 years old shook the world. In recent months, journalist Edward Pentin—one of the leading experts on Vatican issues—compiled a list of the main candidates for the throne of Saint Peter.

The geographical, ideological, and pastoral diversity of the cardinals highlights that the next conclave could mark a change of direction or continuity with the current pontificate.

Below, a review of the names that resonate most strongly inside and outside the Vatican.

Péter Erdő: Tradition from Eastern Europe

• Country: Hungary
• Age: 72 years old

A cardinal appointed by John Paul II, he is president of the Hungarian Episcopal Conference. He stood out for his attempt to rehabilitate the figure of Cardinal Mindszenty, a symbol of resistance to communism. He represents a more traditional and conservative vision.

Luis Antonio Tagle: The face of Asian Catholicism

• Country: Philippines
• Age: 67 years old

Prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, he is close to Francis in style and content. Charismatic and committed to social justice, he could become the first Asian Pope.

Peter Turkson: An African candidate with diplomatic experience

• Country: Ghana
• Age: 76 years old

He was president of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. Moderate, diplomatic, and with a strong social sensitivity. He would be the first African Pope and also the first Black Pope.

Raymond Burke: The favorite of the conservative wing

• Country: United States
• Age: 76 years old

Known for his staunch opposition to Francis's reforms, he is the candidate backed by ultraconservative sectors, including former President Donald Trump. His ideological profile places him at the opposite end of the current pontificate.

Matteo Zuppi: The progressive of dialogue

• Country: Italy
• Age: 69 years old

Archbishop of Bologna and president of the Italian Episcopal Conference. He belongs to the Community of Sant'Egidio and is recognized for his role in mediation processes and his closeness to the most vulnerable sectors.

Malcom Ranjith: Conservatism from Asia

• Country: Sri Lanka
• Age: 77 years old

Appointed bishop by John Paul II and supported by Benedict XVI. He speaks ten languages and holds firm positions on traditional moral issues, such as opposition to same-sex marriage and female participation in the liturgy.

Pietro Parolin: The man of Vatican diplomacy

• Country: Italy
• Age: 70 years old

Secretary of State of the Vatican and a key figure in the internal management of Francis's papacy. He is considered moderate and pragmatic, although some accuse him of ties to the "global left."

Willem Eijk: The conservative theologian

• Country: Netherlands
• Age: 71 years old

Archbishop of Utrecht, he opposes several of the reforms promoted by Francis, especially on issues of sexual morality and ecclesiology. His thinking is more aligned with the legacy of Benedict XVI.

The challenge for the next Supreme Pontiff

The next conclave promises to be decisive. With candidates ranging from progressive profiles like Tagle or Zuppi to conservatives like Burke or Eijk, the future of Catholicism will depend on the balance the College of Cardinals wants to achieve.

The figure who succeeds Francis will have to face the challenges of a globalized, polarized, and transforming Church.