Placing Bets on the New Pope

Easter Monday began with the passing of 88 year-old Pope Francis, setting the stage for the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. People around the world will be watching closely to see who will emerge from the Vatican's conclave and serve as the next man in white, his holiness, the Pope. Included in the flock of the watchful eye will be bookmakers as placing bets on the new pope has become a very popular wager. Safe Online Gaming takes a look at some of the frontrunners, just in case you want to get in on the action.

Place Your Bet on the Next Pope

Although the movie, The Conclave, provided an inside look at the election process conducted in secrecy by the College of Cardinals, the whole spectacle has become very intriguing. Oddsmakers have turned this fascination into a lucrative business, providing odds on various cardinals the papal name they might choose.

Of course, despite its popularity abroad, gambling on who will have his ring kissed, and provide blessings from the balcony, placing bets on the new pope election is strictly illegal in the United States. Take it from Pete Rose, that is a lifetime band you don't want to have to deal with for eternity. The prohibition extends to online gambling for U.S. residents, though informal office pools remain a legal gray area.

Nonetheless, according to Online Betting Guide, Cardinal Pietro Parolin is currently the favorite with 4-to-1 odds, followed Cardinals Luis Antonio Tagle at 9-to-1, Peter Turkson at 6-to-1 and Peter Erdo coming in finally at 7-to-1. We would give you the reason's why, but you probably have as much interest as an alter boy having to visit a priest alone in his chambers. Honestly, and why wouldn't we be honest when discussing placing bets on the new pope, Safe Online Gaming is curious to see if there will ever be an American born pope, or if there could be a black pope. The latter could happen, and if it did, he would look good in all of those gold chains the pope gets to wear!

Now, if you have no interest in betting on divinity, you can always find great online casinos such as Sugar Shack, Caliente Casino or others that are owned an operated in the United States. They will provide more security than the popemobile, and protect your identity better than the leaks that will come out of the conclave over the next few days. The best part is that you will be able to play your favorite online slots, poker, craps, roulette, blackjack and other exciting sweepstakes games in your quest to hit the JACKPOT! As always, be sure to do your research, set your limits and have fun!