Pope Leo XIV to Host Villanova and Notre Dame Basketball Teams in Vatican City
Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to hold private audiences in Vatican City with basketball teams from Villanova and Notre Dame, as well as thousands of American fans attending the season opener.
Minot Bismarck Dickinson, ND, October 31, 2026 —
Vatican City – Pope Leo XIV is set to host delegations from Villanova University and the University of Notre Dame basketball programs, along with a significant contingent of American fans, for private audiences within Vatican City. These events are scheduled to coincide with the upcoming season opener for the basketball teams.
The specific date for these audiences has not been publicly disclosed. Thousands of American fans are also expected to be in attendance, participating in the audiences as part of the season’s opening events.
The practice of sports teams visiting the Vatican and meeting with the Pope is a long-standing tradition. These meetings often serve as a cultural exchange and an opportunity for athletes and fans to connect with religious leadership. Details regarding the exact schedule and the nature of the private audiences were not immediately available.
Both Villanova and Notre Dame are prominent collegiate basketball programs in the United States. Their participation in this event signifies a notable moment for the universities and their supporters.
The summary indicates that Pope Leo XIV will be holding these private audiences, but the precise format and duration of the meetings were not specified. The attendance of thousands of American fans highlights the international appeal of both the sport and the Vatican as a destination.
Further information regarding the itinerary and the specific teams and fan groups involved is anticipated as the season opener approaches.
Story summarized from the original created by ANDREW DAMPF and NICOLE WINFIELD, Associated Press on www.kxnet.com, see more information here.
