Black smoke signals Vatican conclave has failed to elect new pope on first day

theguardian.comPublished: 5/7/2025

Summary

Black smoke signalled the failure of the 133 cardinals inside the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope on the first day of the conclave, with voters finally choosing at 9:05 pm after hours of waiting. The crowd of over 45,000 in St Peter’s Square showed strong support for Pope Francis, with many hoping the new pope will continue his progressive vision. Meanwhile, challenges remain as the college of cardinals is divided and does not want the election to last longer than a few days.