Behind every papal visit lies a public liturgy that everyone witnesses, but also a colossal machine of unforeseen events, daring communication strategies, and high-level negotiations that rarely see the light of day. This time, the preparations for Pope Leo XIII’s imminent arrival in Spain in 2026 promise to create unforgettable moments. This was revealed by Yago de la Cierva, the trip’s general coordinator and a veteran in managing these major events, in a revealing interview where he recounts everything from the most outlandish anecdotes—such as the attempt to seat a Formula 1 champion in the pontiff’s driver’s seat—to the delicate institutional coordination with the Royal Household and Pedro Sánchez’s government.

Fernando Alonso’s frustrated dream and the nod to Formula 1

Genius and security management don’t always travel at the same speed. De la Cierva confessed to an old, crazy aspiration he already attempted at World Youth Day in 2011: to get Fernando Alonso himself to drive the Popemobile. The proposal, which had the approval of the then-Vatican organizer Alberto Gasbarri, ran headlong into a wall of bewilderment and a resounding no from the police command. “They practically gagged; the point was that it had to be a police officer,” the broadcaster recalls with amusement.

However, motorsports will once again play a role in the Pope’s visit. His final event in Madrid will take place in a pavilion at IFEMA, right next to the new Formula 1 street circuit, which will be inaugurated just a week later. Organizers are already working to ensure the pontiff connects with the public in a unique way by taking a symbolic lap of the track.

Who will sing for the Pope? Rosalía’s “no” and the mystery surrounding Bisbal

Music is another key bridge for mobilizing society, and the names of the industry’s biggest stars are already being discussed. Although Vatican protocol demands strict discretion, De la Cierva couldn’t help but drop some obvious hints. With Rosalía ruled out due to a complete scheduling conflict—because of her concert commitments in Boston—attention is now focused on David Bisbal, whom the coordinator almost confirmed before biting his tongue. He would be joined by a very special gospel-style musical project linked to Antonio Banderas, designed to evoke emotion during the event.

Institutional tug-of-war: From King Felipe’s protocol to the Moncloa Palace’s rejection

The papal visit combines a pastoral aspect with the honors befitting a state visit, which always sparks interest from across the political spectrum, eager to capitalize on the photo opportunity. The coordinator explained how this delicate balance has been managed. On the one hand, the Royal Household has maintained a highly institutional profile: unlike the informal approach of Juan Carlos I in 2011, when he received Benedict XVI privately at his residence with his family, Felipe VI and Queen Letizia will host a formal reception at the Royal Palace. Furthermore, the Princess of Asturias and Infanta Sofía are expected to attend the large youth vigil.

On the other hand, the Prime Minister’s aspirations had to adhere to diplomatic protocol. Although Pedro Sánchez formally requested that the Pope visit the Moncloa Palace, the Holy See declined the proposal for strict reasons of protocol. As is international norm, the Pope pays homage to the Head of State, while meetings with the Prime Minister take place on neutral ground: the Apostolic Nunciature.

A legacy beyond the “fireworks”

With a massive response that has exceeded all expectations—reaching almost 17,000 volunteers in Madrid alone and filling up in Barcelona and the Canary Islands—the organizers insist that true success lies in what happens afterward. The goal is to prevent the event from dissipating like a summer storm, forging lasting alliances with partner companies and strengthening the Pope’s charitable works. This gathering, in addition to monumental milestones such as the inauguration of the Sagrada Familia’s final tower and a visit to a prison, will seek to build a strong cultural and human bridge with all of Latin America.