Pope Leo | Source: Getty Images

Pope Leo's BMW Motorcycle Moment Becomes Social Media Sensation

Sep 08, 2025 - 09:10 A.M.

Pope Leo XIV sparked a viral moment recently after climbing onto a white BMW motorcycle outside the Vatican, drawing cheers and global attention online.

Pope Leo XIV surprised crowds at the Vatican on Wednesday by climbing onto a white BMW motorcycle after a meeting with a group of riders.

Pope Leo XIV waving at the crowd from the Vatican balcony on May 8, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. | Source: Getty Images

The new head of the Catholic Church met with the "Jesus Bikers," a Christian motorcycle group that traveled from Germany to Rome for the occasion. After greeting them, he signed the bike before taking a seat on the rider’s saddle.

The motorcycle, a BMW R18, drew cheers from those gathered in St. Peter’s Square. While Pope Leo did not start the engine, his brief appearance on the bike was met with applause and laughter.

The Jesus Bikers said the motorcycle will be sold, with proceeds donated to Missio Austria’s children’s aid project in Madagascar. The moment quickly spread on social media, with clips of the Pope on the bike gaining wide attention.

Pope Leo's BMW Motorcycle Moment Becomes Social Media Sensation

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