19.33 BSTNew Pope Leo XIV - what we know so farJakub Krupa
69-year-old US cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been elected as Pope Leo XIV, prompted celebration and delight among more than 100,000 pilgrims and tourists in St Peter’s Square.
1:01 US cardinal Robert Francis Prevost chosen as new pope – video
The moderate, Chicago-born cardinal was given senior roles by Pope Francis, and has significant missionary experience in Peru having served as bishop of the northern city of Chiclayo.
In this photo released by the Diocese of Chulucanas, Bishop Robert Prevost leads the celebration anniversary of the Diocese in Chulucanas, Peru in August last year. Photograph: AP
He was elected on the second day of conclave, securing a majority of votes among 133 cardinal electors.
White smoke rises from the chimney on the Sistine Chapel, indicating that a new pope has been elected at the Vatican. Photograph: Dylan Martinez/ReutersRobert Prevost becomes Pope Leo XIV as cardinals elect first US pontiffRead more
Global leaders, including US president Donald Trump and key European heads of state and government, offered their congratulations for the new head of the Roman Catholic church.
But between wars, migration, the climate crisis and divisions in his church, the new leader has no shortage of challenges ahead.
Pope Leo’s in-tray: pontiff has many urgent issues to addressRead moreThat’s all from me, Jakub Krupa, but Marina Dunbar will guide you through the evening in Rome with the latest updates.ShareUpdated at 19.34 BST