THE POPEMOBILE IS no longer bulletproof – because Pope Francis believes it walls him off from people.
The Pontiff told Barcelona newspaper La Vanguardia that the Popemobile is a “sardine can”.
The reigning Pope has used a glass-sided vehicle since an assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II in 1981, but the current head of the Catholic Church has taken humbler steps in recent months.
His trip to Brazil last year saw him climb into a regular Fiat hatchback for the drive from the airport. His security was ramped up when a crowd swarmed his car.
He has also used an open-topped vehicle for his processions through St Peter’s Square.
The 77-year-old Argentine said that he was aware that something could happen, but he would leave that in the lap of God.
“It’s true that anything could happen, but let’s face it, at my age I don’t have much to lose.
I know that something could happen to me, but it’s in the hands of God.
Pope Francis went on to say that he would remain neutral in the World Cup, refusing to answer a question on who he wanted to win the World Cup.
The newspaper concluded the interview by asking the Holy Father how he would like to be remembered by history.
“I have not thought about this,” Pope Francis said.
“But I like it when you recall someone and say ‘he was a good guy, he did what he could, and he was not that bad.’ With that, I would be content.”
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