Thoroughbred Arabians, luxury cars… these astonishing gifts given to popes

It was all smiles and escorted by a surprising companion that Leo XIV was seen this Wednesday, October 15 in front of the Paul VI room at the Vatican. A few minutes before the general audience in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope presented the gift he had just received from the Polish town of Kołobrzeg: a thoroughbred Arabian. With an obviously white coat, the animal called Proton is 12 years old and should join the papal residence of Castel Gandolfo, located about thirty kilometers from Rome and where Leo XIV likes to go for a rest period.

Another means of transport: cars. Last December, Pope Francis was given the keys to a unique vehicle, an electric Mercedes popemobile, based on the German manufacturer’s G class. The vehicle is now used by his successor for tours of Saint Peter’s Square during general audiences or after masses.

During Francis’ pontificate, many manufacturers offered the Pope a copy of one of their vehicles, probably never without ulterior motives in terms of positive media coverage…

Auction

The proud Italian automobile industry obviously took part in the movement. In 2017, Pope Francis received a white and gold Lamborghini Huracan, the colors of the Vatican. After putting his signature on the bodywork, he decided to entrust it to the Sotheby’s auction house, to have it purchased by the highest bidder. The operation raised €715,000 which was donated to charitable causes, particularly in Iraq and Africa.

Slightly over a red decade, it was another famous Italian team which offered a copy to the Pope. At the end of 2004, Ferrari gave one of its famous red models to Pope John Paul II. This Ferrari Enzo – a model produced in only 400 copies, the last being the one given to the Pope – was also sold at auction. The amount collected was then donated to the victims of the tsunami which devastated Southeast Asia in December 2024.

Although he did not receive a complete racing vehicle, Léon XIV was offered a Formula 1 steering wheel by Ferrari, while he received the team boss at the end of September. The object was notably used by driver Charles Leclerc during Grands Prix, it was then specified.

A bronze bust

Perhaps more surprisingly, Pope Francis received a Harley-Davidson in 2014, on the occasion of the American brand’s 110th anniversary. But rather than converting to a life of bikerthe Pope had once again decided to sell it. Thanks to the more than €200,000 collected on this occasion, Caritas of Rome was able to build a reception center and a canteen for homeless people.

Sports jerseys

The field of sports is also a source of gifts intended for Peter’s successors. In 2021, then Prime Minister, Jean Castex gave François a signed jersey from Lionel Messi, his Argentine compatriot then stationed at PSG. Leo XIV received a Chicago Bears jersey, his favorite American football team, from American Vice President JD Vance.

The list of these unusual gifts could go on endlessly. One last one is perhaps worth mentioning. A few days before Christmas 1967, Pope Paul VI received in audience the American president Lyndon B. Johnson. As is diplomatic protocol, an exchange of gifts takes place. For his part, the Pope presents a painting representing a Nativity and dating from the 15th century. The American president, for his part, offers a bronze bust… of himself!