Pope Leo XIV will be received at the Élysée Palace where he will deliver a speech before a broad range of French political figures, reports France 24 on September 25, 2026.
This visit comes seven months ahead of the French presidential election, a highly open contest in which the far right appears to be in a strong position. The trip of the head of the Catholic Church will address several major themes, notably the migration crisis and peace in Europe.
Presidential candidates are already positioning themselves regarding this visit, which promises to be an important political moment, notes Bruno Daroux, international commentator at France 24.