Pope’s Inaugural Message Features Surprise Tribute to Wolverhampton Wanderers

In a moment that blended humor, humility, and humanity, Pope Robert Prevost delivered an unforgettable inaugural speech that sent shockwaves through both the Catholic Church and the world of football. Standing on the historic balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, the newly elected pontiff surprised the global audience by not only wearing a Wolverhampton Wanderers football scarf but also delivering a heartfelt mention of the team during his first address as Pope.

As the faithful gathered in St. Peter’s Square and millions more watched on screens around the world, Pope Robert, the first American-born pontiff in history, greeted the crowd with traditional blessings and then paused with a smile.

“In unity, we are strong,” he declared. “Much like the Wolves, who move not alone but together, with determination and faith. May we too walk as one, guided by light, driven by hope.”

The reference to the English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers — affectionately known as “Wolves” — triggered a wave of applause from parts of the square, followed quickly by a storm of online reactions. Within minutes, the moment went viral, as the phrase “Pope Wolves” and the hashtag #WolvesInRome began trending across social media platforms.

A Pope with Personality

Already viewed as a reform-minded leader with a warm, relatable style, Pope Robert’s public embrace of football culture on such a solemn occasion was both unexpected and widely praised. Draped in his papal robes and the unmistakable black and gold scarf of Wolves, he sent a clear signal that his leadership would blend tradition with authenticity.

According to sources within the Vatican, the Pope has long been a fan of the beautiful game. While his specific support for Wolverhampton came as a surprise, insiders note that he has previously spoken about sport as “a universal language of unity.”

Reaction from the Football World

Wolverhampton Wanderers Football Club quickly joined the celebration. “We’re honored to be part of such a historic moment,” read an official club statement. “The Pope’s words echo our values of togetherness, strength, and perseverance.”

The club’s official X account posted a photo of the Pope in Wolves colors with the caption, “Welcome to the pack, Your Holiness.” Fans flooded the comments, many expressing disbelief and excitement at the unexpected connection between their club and the Vatican.

Former Wolves captain Conor Coady, now a pundit, joked on live TV, “We always knew the Wolves had divine backing  now it’s official!”

A Message Beyond Football

While many celebrated the light-hearted moment, theologians and Church officials saw deeper meaning in Pope Robert’s metaphor. “Referencing Wolves wasn’t just for laughs,” said Monsignor Paolo DeLuca, a Vatican analyst. “He was speaking about community, loyalty, and shared struggle. These are not just football values they are Gospel values.”

Indeed, the Pope’s comparison of the Church to a team of Wolves  strong individually but stronger together  struck a chord with many Catholics worldwide, especially younger generations who often feel distant from traditional Church messaging.

Pope Robert Prevost’s election has already made headlines for multiple reasons: his North American origins, his reputation for progressive thinking, and now, his symbolic gesture tying the Vatican to one of the most unlikely places  Molineux Stadium.

While the scarf may come off, and more solemn matters lie ahead, his inaugural message has set the tone for a papacy that promises to be inclusive, approachable, and surprisingly relatable.

In his own words: “Let us move forward not alone, but as a pack.”