The Vatican is closing the Sistine Chapel to the public as part of its preparations for the conclave to elect the next pope after the death of Pope Francis

The status of an Italian cardinal is being debated as preparations get under way for the May 7 conclave to elect a successor to Pope Francis

The Vatican on Monday set the date for the Papal conclave amid some drama over whether a convicted cardinal will be able to attend.

About 130 cardinals will be able to vote on a successor for Francis, and a two-thirds majority is needed to elect the new head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025. Many world leaders are expected to attend his funeral in Vatican City, including President Donald Trump, Prince William, and President Volodymyr Zelensky.

Giro d’Italia to pay tribute to Pope Francis with stage start in Vatican City - The Italian grand tour begins in Albania on 9 May

The Giro d’Italia will pay homage to the late Pope Francis by passing through the Vatican gardens behind St. Peter’s Basilica and in front of the Santa Marta hotel — which was where Francis lived — during the final stage of the cycling race on June 1.