Embedded in history and chosen with care, one of the first things the next pope will do is pick a new name, a tradition that’s been part of the Catholic Church for centuries.
This practice began in the 6th century when a pope known as Mercurius changed his name to John II because his original "handle" was linked to a pagan god, which didn’t feel right for the leader of the Church.
Since then, choosing the next pope name has become a meaningful way for each new pontiff to signal a fresh start, often honoring past popes or saints and reflecting the vision and values he hopes to bring to his time as leader of the Catholic faith.
The oddsmakers at Sports Interaction are already taking bets on the next pope’s name. The bookies favor John and Francis as the two most likely choices, but there are other names in the mix.
What will be the papal name of the next pope?
| Papal name of the next pope |  |
|---|---|
| John | +400 |
| Francis | +450 |
| John Paul | +500 |
| Benedict | +700 |
| Leo | +800 |
Odds courtesy of Sports Interaction.
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✝️ Favorites for next pope name
John (+400)
If history is any guide, John is the perennial front-runner. With 21 popes having chosen it, the name is steeped in tradition and recalls both St. John the Apostle and transformative leaders like John XXIII. For a new pope, going with John would be a nod to unity and a willingness to blend old wisdom with new ideas.
Francis (+450)
The choice of Francis would immediately evoke the legacy of St. Francis of Assisi: humble, devoted to the poor, and a champion of peace. After Pope Francis brought the name into the modern era, a Francis II would signal a desire to keep the Church focused on compassion, simplicity, and social justice.
John Paul (+500)
Opting for John Paul is a clear salute to the late John Paul II, whose charisma and global reach left a lasting mark. It’s a name that suggests energy, outreach, and a commitment to being present on the world stage, perfect for a pontiff who wants to inspire and connect with Catholics everywhere.
Benedict (+700)
Benedict is a name with deep roots in monastic tradition, calling to mind St. Benedict’s legacy of contemplation and order. Most recently used by Benedict XVI, it carries an air of scholarly reflection and stability. A pope choosing Benedict would be seen as valuing thoughtful leadership and spiritual depth.
Leo (+800)
Leo is the name of popes who didn’t shy away from challenges. Think Leo the Great, who helped define papal authority. Choosing Leo today would hint at boldness and a readiness to face the Church’s modern trials head-on, projecting strength and a willingness to lead with courage.
How does the next pope choose his name?
After the conclave elects the new pope, he’s asked what name he wishes to be called, and that choice instantly becomes his official title. This moment is more than just a formality; it’s a powerful symbol of transformation and continuity, connecting the new leader to the Church’s long history while setting the tone for the future.
🤖 AI prediction for the next pope name
We turned to the enormous computing power of ChatGPT to find out which name will be chosen by Pope Francis' successor, and it confidently selected John, citing the name's deep historical roots.
Take a look at ChatGPT's in-depth reasoning below:
The next pope will choose the name John as a powerful nod to both tradition and transformation. Historically, Popes named John have symbolized pivotal moments in the Church—most notably John XXIII, who initiated the Second Vatican Council and is remembered for his warmth, humility, and progressive spirit. By selecting this name, the new pontiff could align himself with a legacy of renewal and pastoral outreach, signaling a desire to build bridges within the global Church. The biblical roots of the name—most notably St. John the Apostle, the “beloved disciple”—further reinforce an image of closeness to Christ and a commitment to spiritual intimacy, compassion, and unity.
At a time when the Catholic Church faces internal division, declining attendance in the West, and calls for reform, the name John would provide both comfort and continuity. It’s a name that resonates with the faithful, evoking stability while leaving room for evolution. For a pope who may come from outside Europe or carry a reputation as a reformer, choosing John could also serve as a balancing gesture—grounding innovation in reverence for the Church’s storied past. In short, the name John offers a timeless, unifying message: a Church rooted in love, open to change, and faithful to its mission.
