Cardinal Gregorio Rosa Chávez predicts a swift papal selection process, possibly lasting only two to three days. He believes a consensus exists among cardinals for a successor mirroring Pope Francis's progressive views. This potential choice suggests a continuation of Francis's left-leaning policies, which included controversial statements on atheism and outspoken criticism of political figures like Donald Trump. The conclave will involve a record 133 cardinals, with a significant majority appointed by the late Pope Francis.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.