New Delhi, June 7 -- Pope Leo XIV has thrown his support behind the United States ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026, offering a boost to the co-host nation as the tournament prepares to get underway on June 11.

The pontiff, who became the first American leader of the Catholic Church, said he would be cheering for the US national team during the competition, despite his busy schedule.

Speaking to a journalist aboard a flight from Rome to Madrid on Saturday, Pope Leo said, "I would certainly support the U.S. I don't know how many games I'll be able to see, but I wish them all the best," reported Reuters.

The United States will host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico and begin their campaign in Group D, where they are set to face P...