Pope betting goes digital: Inside Italy's viral Fantapapa game
As 133 cardinals gather in the Sistine Chapel for the secret process of choosing the next pope, people around the world are doing something very different -- they're placing bets on who it might be.
If you trust the betting public, Italian Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican secretary of state, is the most likely to be the next pope. Oddschecker, a betting odds website, shows him leading the pack, followed by Cardinal Luis Tagle from the Philippines, Cardinal Matteo Zuppi from Italy and Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa from Italy.
However, Zuppi is the favorite on a popular Italian app called Fantapapa. It works like other fantasy sports leagues but for picking the next pope, and has become a sensation across Italy.
MORE: Papal conclave live updates
PHOTO: A view shows St. Peter's Basilica, ahead of the conclave to elect the next pope, as seen from Rome, Italy, May 6, 2025. (Amanda Perobelli/Reuters)
"This game is a really fun game to play with friends and have a laugh," Federico La Rocca, a 23-year-old student, told ABC News.
The game is simple: First, you create a team of cardinals, just like a fantasy league. Then you pick your team captain -- the cardinal you think will become pope.
It's become a family affair for Alessandra Morisco, who said she plays in a league with her two daughters, mother and sister.
"A lot of my friends are playing, even priests," Morisco told ABC News. "I think the power of this app is that it connects a serious task with an Italian way of taking things, with serenity and happiness. And it fosters a sense of community around this big historical event."
Players can also predict the new pope's first words to the public, what name he will choose and how many failed votes it will take before a new pope is elected.
PHOTO: People take pictures of the central loggia balcony at St. Peter's Basilica, where the name of the new pope will be announced and where he will give the Urbi and orbi at The Vatican, May 6, 2025. (Eloisa Lopez/Reuters)
"I'm supporting [Cardinal Parolin]," Morisco said. "It's a funny way of saying that, of course, I would like to have him as pope, but it is not up to me -- it is the Holy Spirit that will decide."
The app's creators, Pietro Pace and Mauro Vanetti, are surprised by its success.
MORE: Who are the top contenders to be the next pope?
"It's crazy for us. We developed a video game just for friends, not for everyone in Italy," Pace told ABC News.
The pair rushed to develop Fantapapa in February, ahead of the conclave.
"We don't even have a graphic designer," Vanetti said. "This is embarrassing, but there's no artists involved. So the cardinals, for example, I made them. They look a bit like my dog."
While Fantapapa might be new, betting on popes isn't. Professor Leighton Vaughan Williams, who studies economics at Nottingham Business School, told ABC News that records of betting on the Pope can be traced back to 1503.
"Roman bankers would take bets off merchants... they would get tips from inside the conclave of what might be going on," he said. "So, they'd be able to set the odds."
Today's pope betting market is bigger than ever. Oddschecker reports that more than 300,000 people from 140 countries have checked their site for odds. While betting on the pope isn't allowed on regulated U.S. sportsbooks, Oddschecker estimates people have bet over $17 million on unregulated sites.
Some Catholic Church officials have called betting on the pope "indecent and shameful."
However, Morisco told ABC News she didn't feel any Catholic guilt about playing Fantapapa.
"I think it can make stronger the relationship with our religion," she said. "While we wait, we can pray or play."
Unlike betting sites, Fantapapa doesn't involve any money -- app co-creator Pace suggested it offers a greater reward.
"If you win the FantaPapa, you can have eternal glory," he said. "This is one important prize."
Pope betting goes digital: Inside Italy's viral Fantapapa game originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
30 minutes ago
- Yahoo
Skip The Uncomfortable Heels And Get These Fancy Flats For Special Occasions
The onset of summer also ushers in event season. Whether you're attending a gala, wedding, cocktail party, office celebrations or a bachelorette party, there's no reason to sacrifice comfort for style. If you prefer wearing flat shoes over heels, don't feel pressured to squeeze your feet into sky-high stilettos. Free yourself from the pain of high heels and embrace the fancy, comfy flat. You might be surprised to find that there are plenty of cute, stylish and even sexy flats available that look just as sophisticated as a pair of heels without destroying your personal comfort. Below, we've rounded up a selection of gorgeous, timeless flats that will complement anything from a dress to a suit at a range of price points. Nab some and hit your events in high style — and feel good doing it. Amazon If you love the '90s then check out these delightful flats at Amazon. They have a decidedly retro silhouette with an oversized bow that screams late '80s-early '90s. My mother definitely had a pair like these in her closet when I was a kid, making them sweetly nostalgic and perfect for vintage-lovers. This timeless look will never go out of style and is perfect for all your fancy get-togethers. They're available in a wide range of colors in sizes 5.5-10.5. Promising reviews: "Comfortable and super cute! Best flats ever. Matches everything from shorts to evening dress. Lots of compliments! Im gonna buy a backup pair! Wish they had more colors I would buy them all!" — J.O. "Very classy. Wore them today to a tea party they are very nice looking comfortable and got several compliments." — Sara Waterman "These adorable little black flats were a terrific find! They are super lightweight and durable. I've worn them plenty of times now and they are so comfortable and don't hurt to walk in. I've bought other shoes that have fallen apart in 1 or 2 wears, but not these! They are perfect! They fit true to size, and are even okay for wider feet. I'll definitely be buying these in more colors, because at this price point, I can't afford not to!" — Jessica J. $31 at Amazon Margaux These notoriously comfortable flats from Margaux feature a supportive inner sole and plush foam padding that molds to your feet the longer you wear them. The strappy slingback and Mary Jane hybrid style gives them a unique look, while the two-tone Italian leather construction is as elegant as it gets. These shoes are available in three different widths and four different colors in sizes 3.5-12, depending on which color you purchase. Promising reviews: "Beautiful, comfy, classy slingback. Walked immediately in them with no problems. Well made and hope to have for a long time since will go with everything. I did take the advice to size up a half size and they are perfect." — Lynn K. "I bought these shoes for a Celebration of Life and was on feet for hours with out any discomfort or hot spots. I have a small, narrow heeled, high arched foot and they fit true to size. These are my second pair of shoes from Margaux and would highly recommend." — Pamela F. "Love the color, the fit and the comfort. It is classic elegance and great for work and being on my feet for long periods!" — Katherine N. $335+ at Margaux Black: $325 at Nordstrom Cole Haan With its broderie anglaise upper and trim silhouette, Cole Haan's Georgie flat may transport you back to your youth. The brand is known for its comfort, and these shoes are lined with leather and equipped with Cole Haan's proprietary insole that contains multiple cushioned layers for maximum comfort. You can get the Georgie at Amazon and Zappos in a variety of classic leathers, but only Cole Haan's site offers this lace fabrication. They're offered in sizes 5-11, and a number of reviewers advised sizing down. Promising Cole Haan review: 'These are SO cute! They are super comfortable. No blisters or anything the first time I wore them. They did run small. I'm normally an 8.5-9 and had to go with an 8.' — Jcbatt $90 at Cole Haan (regularly $145) DSW Enjoy this simple silhouette with a golden hue that adds a touch of glamour to any outfit with these flats from Dolce Vita. They're made with high-quality leather and feature an adjustable closure for a classic Mary Jane look. They're available in sizes 6-11 in black or gold. Promising reviews: "Such a cute flat to dress up or down! Very comfortable and true to size." — Cll9 "Just bought these adorable Mary Jane flats that are so on trend for this spring as well! They are super comfy right out of the box and don't require any break in! They look so cute and I know that I will get a lot of wear out of them!" — SC55 "I bought these in black and they are quite comfortable and have a non slip sole. They dress up anything I am wearing and look great." — MamaSteve "I just love these shoes. The leather is extremely soft making these shoes very comfortable. Runs true to size." — Amber $70 at DSW (regularly $120) Vivaia We are big fans of Vivaia shoes over here at HuffPost – the brand's Margot shoe just received a HuffPicks award – and these elegant d'orsay flats promise to offer the same combination of style and comfort that other Vivaia is known for. The cutout detailing on the side gives them an unexpected look, while the array of different colors and patterns from makes it possible to customize your look to perfectly suit the occasion. They feature Vivaia's signature plush insoles and unique fabric, both of which help to enhance the shoe's overall comfort factor. Available in sizes 5-11. Promising reviews: "I have been eyeing these shoes for awhile. Finally decided to take the plunge. I am really glad I did! What I love about Vivaia shoes is that I can dress up or down, and still be comfortable. I can wear these year round. These are really pretty. I wasn't sure about the "v slant" in the middle, but I quickly got used to it. They are truly comfortable. This is my fifth pair of shoes, and Vivaia has become my favorite choice. The bottoms are nonslip, which is a huge plus! I find that pointed shoes are more comfortable for me. I do have smaller feet, and more normal than or narrow or wide. While not a huge deal to me, shipping was incredibly fast!" — Beth "The shoes are very comfortable, even when you're wearing them in very hot and humid days, when the feet tend to get swollen. They also look great! They're very elegant." — Raquel D. $69+ at Vivaia $129+ at Amazon Zappos Sam Edelman's Nico skimmer has a select number of extremely positive reviews at Zappos, all speaking to its comfort and eye-catching design. The velvet upper is ready for a night out, and a mammoth gilded buckle offers a sculptural twist on a vintage-inspired detail. Get these in sizes 6-10. Promising Zappos reviews: 'I went to an event where I had to stand all night. The shoes were so comfortable, not to mention cute' — Charmagne 'I have 8 different pair of the Brit, the mule this flat is similar to. These flats are padded inside and sooooo comfy. True to size... Sam, make these in a million colors. I'll buy them all!' — Godivagrrl $65 at Tuckernuck (regularly $130) $78 at Zappos (regularly $130) $78 at Bloomingdale's H&M Available in sizes 4-10, these jersey slingback flats are bedecked with dazzling little clusters rhinestones and sequined that give them a pop of flair while still remaining understated and simple. The covered elastic back heel helps the shoe comfortably contour to your foot without putting too much pressure on it, so you can enjoy a blister-free evening. Get these in sizes 4-11. $43 at H&M DSW There's something very French and elegant about the triple-strap Mary Jane design on these Journee flats. Available in medium and wide widths in a range of cute colors, these adorable shoes are designed with an ultra-cushy foam footbed that's designed keep your feet supported and comfortable as you dance the night away or get your steps in. You can shop them in sizes 5.5-12. Promising DSW review: "I bought this shoe in both black and red and was not expecting it to be as comfortable as it is stylish! Perfect shoes to throw on when running errands but also with jeans or long dresses!" — Nonie "These shoes are the perfect go to flat!! They are comfy and cute. I bought them in one color and had to buy another pair. They are true to size and give a touch of cute to any outfit." — MelanTone $50 at DSW (regularly $72) $50 at Zappos $44 at Macy's Zappos These sleek Naturalizer flats are punched up by the presence of a cheerful floppy bow and a sterling hue that make them feel festive enough for a fancy occasion but equally suitable for the office when paired with jeans or a skirt. The sole is engineered to mirror your foot shape for maximum comfort. Promising review: 'These shooes were very comfotable. Thwesides gaped open a little bit like they were a bit too wide (but were medium width) but they felt great. I was trying to match a dress and decided it was not the right shade of purple. But for a long night of standing, you're feet will not hurt.' — Anonymous $130 at Zappos (regularly $145) Amazon Add some sparkle to your feet with these beautiful Elizabet Tang slingback flats. They're designed with soft cushioned soles to support your feet while remaining secure thanks to an adjustable ankle strap. They're available in a range of colors in sizes 6-11. Promising reviews: "This sleek style kicks in an unbelievable fashion statement. These shoes are very comfortable and stylish. I received many compliments. Wish they came in navy blue." — Jackie Johnson "Absolutely beautiful. Wear these shoes to church on Easter. I got so many compliments. Comfortable shoes with a whole lot of style." — Bsongbyrd "Affordable and pretty. Super cute. Wore them for my wedding. Very comfortable." — Krizia Kracker "Because these are so comfortable I'm compelled to write a review. Never had much luck with getting shoes online but read so many reviews about how comfortable and stylish they were, so heck, gave them a folks were right! Wore them first day right out of the box ALL DAY. Was traveling so brought a pair of comfortable flats just in case. Didn't need'em. Not only comfortable but cute too - look good on and made nicely. What a nice surprise." — SJE $40 at Amazon Ssense Call me crazy, but I think these Melissa jelly ballet flats could easily be mistaken for Miu Miu flats. They're made in Melissa's signature semi-transparent PVC material and have a molded pleat detail at the toe and a bow that makes them look like a classic ballet slipper. How fun would these be paired with a super fancy dress? They're playful and cheeky, not to mention comfortable and waterproof. They're available in sizes 5-10 and selling out fast. Promising reviews: "I am over the moon with this shoes!! It's super comfortable! Feels like you're wearing nothing on your feet. Loved it 🥰" — Sheila M. "I've always loved ballet flats and these did not disappoint. I especially love the strap! These are so comfy and easy to put on. They are a jelly like material but more soft and flexible than regular jelly shoes. The sole is very padded and cushy. I usually wear 6.5 in sneakers/boots and got these in a size 6, they're perfect! I also have wide ish feet and don't feel squished" — Yaknowho "These are absolutely gorgeous and super comfortable. So many compliments every time I wear them. I will definitely get another color!" — Carolina C. $55 at Melissa (regularly $79) $79 at Urban Outfitters Nordstrom Made with a cushioned footbed that mirrors the contours of the foot, this sexy slingback has a lovely design and a pop of metal on the heel that gives it a ton of visual interest. It's made with soft leather and comes in three different widths so you can find your perfect fit. It's available in three colors in sizes 5-12. Promising reviews: "These shoes were perfect. I had a conference to attend where I was on my feet for 6 hours a day and walking miles on hard convention center concrete floors. These were extremely comfortable and dressy so they matched my business suits well. I wish they came in more colors." — Sarouche "Finally comfort with style. I have arthritis in the tops of my feet and ankles, it has been quite a journey finding a stylish shoe that comes in a wide width & looks as good as it feels." — Edy KK "I have several events to attend but am recovering from a stress fracture in my foot. I took a chance on these based on the reviews and they did not disappoint. I was on my feet for hours and the shoes remained comfortable. It's the first pointed toe shoe that I've been able to wear. Get them if you can!" — Momof4NY $120 at Nordstrom $100 at Zappos (regularly $130) Zappos If you're looking to invest in a nice designer flat, look no further than these Stuart Weitzman flats. They have a Mary Jane strap embellished with pearls for a flash of understated elegance. They're available in sizes 5.5-10 and are a perfect addition to your fancy flats rotation. Depending on where you shop you can get them in black or nude. Promising reviews: "Extremely comfortable and chic! Goes with so many outfits from casual to dressy, fall to spring!" — Rebecca "Just opened my box with trepidation- getting older with a bunion and a toe that bends awkwardly. My favorite shoe has always been SW but my age shows. I put these on and WOW they are cute AND comfortable!! Comes with extra pearls in case of mishap. Woohoo!! I'm in love! Soft leather and the strap isn't killing me either. Nice to have a flat pair of classy shoes!!" — Purkinje "Bought these for my daughter's wedding as even kitten heels are uncomfortable for me to walk in. These are comfortable and true to size . Dressy enough for a formal outfit . Lucky I got them on sale . Definitely recommend" — Soleil $342 at Zappos (regularly $450) $225 at Nordstrom (regularly $450) $244 at Farfetch (regularly $450) Reformation If you want to add a bit of an edge to your look without feeling like you're in costume, take a look at these studded flats at Reformation. They have a sleek, slim silhouette with a stylish construction that looks effortlessly modern. They're available in sizes 5-11. $268 at Reformation Ssense For a look that is reminiscent of designer brand The Row's beloved sock-like silhouette at a fraction of the price, try out these gorgeous lambskin ballerina flats from A.P.C. They are giving high-fashion drama without being over the top. Ideal for lovers of minimalist fashion, these beauties can easily be dressed up or down and make any outfit look much more expensive than it actually is. They're a available in sizes 35-39 and selling out fast, so snag a pair while you can. $158 at Ssense (regularly $340) Reformation While these beautiful shoes are also available in a foggy blue suede and snakeskin, the glimmering silver hue is perfect for formal events, adding a bit of shimmering oomph to any outfit. They're made with a soft foil metallic leather that is super shiny and has an interesting textured surface. You can get these in sizes 5-11. $268 at Reformation Ssense If you're into something quirky and bold, take a look at these padded ballerina flats from Yume Yume. They have a wraparound tie strap that you can weave up your legs and a fun padded silhouette that gives them an almost cartoon-like look without feeling silly or detracting from formality. If, like me, you love a funky shoe, this is the way to go while preserving the sanctity of your foot comfort. You can get these in Italian sizes 35-41 in black, white or silver. $160 at Ssense (regularly $355) Ssense Add a whole lot of pizzazz to your look with these patent faux-leather flats from Ganni. They have a detachable chain with a logo charm so you can customize your luck, plus eyelets at the bow and ankle strap. It has a very low stacked rubber block heel that gives you just the right amount of height and support. These shoes are a fun spin on your everyday flats and are available in sizes 35-42. $158 at Ssense (regularly $395) $246 at Farfetch These Popular Flats Are Back In Stock And Everyone Is Obsessed With How Comfy They Are The 'Best Thing Ever' For Relieving Foot Pain Is Only $22 These $40 Walking Shoes Are The Best I've Ever Worn, Hands Down
Yahoo
an hour ago
- Yahoo
Inter choose Chivu as new coach to replace Inzaghi
The decision has reportedly been made, as Inter will try to finalise an agreement with Cristian Chivu to be their new coach. The club needed to find a replacement after Simone Inzaghi asked to leave San Siro, signing a two-year contract with Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal. Advertisement Their first choice was Cesc Fabregas, but Como President Mirwan Suwarso confirmed in multiple interviews today that while they asked to negotiate with him, that request was rejected. Patrick Vieira was also mentioned, as he has a €500,000 release clause in his contract with Genoa. Chivu gets the Inter job MILAN, ITALY – JANUARY 21: FC Internazionale Milano former player Cristian Chivu looks on prior to the Serie A match between FC Internazionale and AS Roma at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on January 21, 2018 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by) Now La Gazzetta dello Sport, Sky Sport Italia and more are all confident a decision has been reached, with Chivu being offered the job as new Inter coach. The 44-year-old played for Inter and won the Treble, then worked for the club as a youth team coach, before taking on his first senior management role at Parma in February. Advertisement He oversaw three wins, seven draws and three defeats to keep them in Serie A. epa11671978 Inter's supporters during the Italian Serie A soccer match AS Roma vs FC Inter at Olimpico stadium in Rome, Italy, 20 October 2024. EPA-EFE/ANGELO CARCONI Negotiations to sign a new deal with the Ducali have seemingly been interrupted after Inter stepped forward. Director of sport Piero Ausilio was tight-lipped at the airport when returning from London this afternoon, but went straight to the club headquarters, where the contract was being drawn up. Inter, Piero Ausilio arriva a Milano Linate dopo la trasferta londinese. Il botta e risposta con il giornalista: 'L'ho presa solo io?' – 'Complimenti'. 🗣️ #inter #ausilio #inzaghi #calciomercato #fabregas #marotta #sportitalia It could be signed as early as Friday morning, because Inter begin their Club World Cup campaign against Monterrey on June 17.
San Francisco Chronicle
2 hours ago
- San Francisco Chronicle
Olympic high jump gold medalists Kerr and Tamberi debate the rules for ties
ROME (AP) — At the last two Olympics, the men's high jump produced a tie — requiring a big decision. In Tokyo four years ago, Gianmarco Tamberi and Mutaz Barshim agreed to share the gold. In Paris last year, Hamish Kerr and Shelby McEwen agreed to a jump-off that Kerr finally won after an interminable series of misses. Nearly a year later, Kerr is suggesting that sharing should be eliminated from the rule book. 'In the future, does that need to be an option?' Kerr, who is from New Zealand, told The Associated Press on Thursday as he prepared to compete at Rome's Diamond League meeting. 'It's probably not something that I would ever take," Kerr said of accepting a tie. "I think it's great that we have people jumping off for medals.' Tamberi, unsurprisingly, does not agree. The Italian noted how Kerr and McEwen combined for 11 straight misses — so many that there wasn't enough room on the scoreboard for all the Xs — in regulation and the jump-off. And that the bar was lowered twice during the jump-off before Kerr finally broke the streak of failures when he got over 2.34 meters (7 feet, 8 inches) to win. 'It becomes an endurance competition and isn't about who can jump the highest anymore,' Tamberi said when asked about Kerr's comments. 'I think people appreciated the moment of sportsmanship that we created in Tokyo. 'Or maybe they should try to find a different way to determine the winner in terms of who jumps the highest,' Tamberi added. 'But jump-offs are really strange, because it's about who has more energy and who can last longer. It's like turning the 100 meters into the 10,000.' The shared gold between Tamberi and Barshim strengthened an existing friendship and Kerr said he feels an enduring bond with his American opponent McEwen, too. 'Obviously we could have shared and we could have sort of walked away from it without having such an awesome experience and a really kind of engaging moment for the crowd and for everyone back home,' Kerr said. 'But we both decided to jump and that was really special. We've got a special bond now.' But Tamberi is making his season debut in Rome and looking to spice things up, while McEwen is not entered for the Golden Gala. Both the 28-year-old Kerr and the 33-year-old Tamberi plan to continue competing through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. First up, though, is this season's world championships in Tokyo in September. Calendar change World Athletics has made a calendar change so that starting this year the track season ends with the worlds. That means that the Diamond League finals in Zurich will be held at the end of August. 'It's a good move, because athletes need to prepare for the worlds and there won't be a post-worlds or post-Olympics where athletes often compete only to salute their fans or for economic reasons,' said Tamberi, whose wife is expecting the couple's first child in August. ___
