Illinois State Rep gifts Fighting Illini jersey to Pope Leo XIV
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 3, 2026, 9:03 PM
Last updated Jun 3, 2026
On June 3, 2026, Illinois State Rep. Kim Buckner presented a Fighting Illini football jersey to Pope Leo XIV during a visit to the Vatican. The jersey features the name 'Leo' and the number 14, symbolizing the pope's position as the first pontiff from the United States. Buckner, who attended Illinois and played football there, expressed gratitude for the pope's leadership. The meeting highlights a cultural connection with Illinois amid the pope's new role.
- •Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8, 2025.
- •Kim Buckner presented the jersey during a Vatican visit.
- •The jersey is blue with 'Leo' on the back and number 14.
- •Buckner played football at Illinois and has a political science degree.
- 9:03 PMYahoo Sports — Pope Leo gifted Illinois football jersey
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