Latest Update on Papal Conclave The conclave to elect a new pope following Pope Francis's death began on May 7, 2025 , in the Sistine Chapel, as announced by the Vatican. As of February 2026, no new pope has been publicly confirmed elected from those proceedings, though past conclaves like 2005 and 2013 wrapped up in just two days with white smoke signaling success.

Conclave Timeline

Cardinals gathered post-funeral for general congregations, locking in May 7 after Pope Francis passed on Easter Monday 2025. The Sistine Chapel closed to tourists for secrecy, with 135 voting-eligible cardinals (under 80) isolated—no phones, media, or outside contact until a two-thirds majority pick.

  • Key Dates : Death ~April 2025; funeral soon after; conclave start May 7.
  • Process : Ballots burned daily—black smoke (no pope), white (elected).
  • Duration Varies : Recent ones quick, but could stretch if divided.

How It Works

Electors swear oaths, vote in secret; "extra omnes" clears non-cardinals. Smoke from the chapel chimney broadcasts results globally—watch for white! Full isolation at Casa Santa Marta ensures focus.

"Cardinals will be isolated... until a new pope is elected."

Current Status (Feb 2026)

No white smoke reports post-May 7 in available updates, suggesting ongoing talks or an unannounced outcome—Vatican secrecy reigns. Speculation networks and dashboards track alliances, but official word lags. For real-time, check Vatican News.

TL;DR : Conclave started May 7, 2025 ; election likely soon after, but no confirmed new pope yet.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.