Jim Farley, CEO of Ford and his wife, Lia, recently presented Pope Leo XIV with a new Explorer SUV.
The couple personally delivered the vehicle during a private audience with the American-born pontiff on February 28.
THE black Explorer Platinumcustomized with a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid powertrain and 10-speed hybrid transmission, was assembled at Ford’s Chicago assembly plant, located about 5 miles from Leo’s hometown of Dolton. It also features vanity license plates reading “DA POPE” and “LEO XIV”.
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The 2026 Ford Explorer offered to Pope Leo XIV. (Ford Motor Co.)
Inside, seat labels feature the Chicago flag and the city’s skyline is stitched onto the vehicle’s center console. Engravings of the skyline and St. Peter’s Basilica are found on the sill plates near the bottom of the SUV’s doors.
Seat labels feature the Chicago flag.
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Leo plans to use the vehicle to cross Vatican territory, according to Ford.
“He noticed and appreciated the personal touches,” Farley said. “We even took a short drive and I can confirm that the Holy Father likes to drive a sporty ride. But more than anything, what stays with me is the feeling of gratitude and joy that we felt meeting him and sharing this small gesture which reflects the pride and care of the The Ford team at home in Chicago.”
Pope Leo XIV shakes hands during an audience with media representatives in the Paul VI Hall of the Vatican, May 12, 2025. (Reuters/Eloisa Lopez)
Employees were aware that they were building a vehicle for a VIP, but for confidentiality reasons they were not told it was for the Pope.
“When I found out it was the Pope, I was so excited,” said Jennifer Barilovich, chief electrical systems integration engineer for the Explorer. “I can’t believe I helped make a vehicle that the Pope is going to drive! As soon as I could, I told my family about it. I come from a big Catholic family, so everyone was excited and just thought it was the coolest project.”
Barilovich, like other members of the team, sent a letter to the pontiff.
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A letter from Ford employee Jennifer Barilovich to Pope Leo XIV. (Ford Motor Co.)
The connection with Ford pre-delivery specialist Adolphus Harper was even closer to home.
Adolphus Harper, Ford employee. (Ford Motor Co.)
“I graduated from St. Rita in 1986, so to know that the pope who taught me is now leading something that I helped put together — it’s amazing,” he said. “I’m proud to be a part of this. To see someone connected to my own upbringing be a part of something so historic – it’s incredible.”
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Among the gifts the team sent Leo were a special recognition coin from the Chicago Assembly Plant and a pizza box from Aurelio’s Pizza, one of his favorites. hometown restaurants.
Danny Golubovic, Ford employee. (Ford Motor Co.)
“Knowing that a vehicle built here in Chicago is going to the Pope, it’s hard not to be proud,” said Danny Golubovic, pre-delivery specialist. “As someone with a deep faith, this is an even greater honor. The work we do here is important – for our city, our families and our people.”
