Who is likely to become the next pope following Pope Francis’ death as the Vatican starts secret process

Following the death of Pope Francis this morning (21 April), the Vatican will now begin the highly secretive process of choosing his successor - but who could it potentially be?

The Vatican announced earlier this morning (21 April) that Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church, has died.

In a statement announcing his death, Cardinal Kevin Ferrell of the Vatican said: "At 7.35 this morning, the bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the home of the Father.

"His entire life was dedicated to the service of the Lord and of his church.

"He taught us to live the values of the Gospel with faithfulness, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalised."

Following the death of his holiness, Catholics around the world will now go into a nine-day period of official mourning, before the process of choosing another pope begins.

But how exactly are they chosen, and who is it likely to be?

How is the pope chosen?

Catholics around the world will now be in an official nine-day period of mourning (Vatican Media via Vatican Pool/Getty Images)

While it's not clear who will be the next head of the Catholic Church, the voting process is likely to last between 15 and 20 days, in what is known as a papal conclave.

The decision will be made by the College of Cardinals - a select group of over 200 senior cardinals chosen by successive Popes - who will vote four times per day until a candidate receives a major two-thirds of the vote.

And while there is no legal age limit when it comes to the important role, one thing is certain - it has to be a man.

Who is likely to be chosen as the new pope?

Peter Turkson could become the first black pope in centuries (Franco Origlia/Getty Images)

The papal conclave is a highly secretive process, but there are some frontrunners in terms of who is likely to be next.

Pietro Parolin, 70, from Italy, is thought to be a top contender, and was a close friend to Francis.

He has been the Vatican's secretary of state since 2013 when Francis was elected, and is reliable and trust-worthy.

Luis Antonio Tagle, 67, from the Philippines, is also set to be highly thought of in decision making.

He is the former archbishop of Manila, and being elected would make him the first ever Asian pope.

Tagle was always thought to be Francis' successor until recent times where he has fallen out of favour, after suggesting the Catholic Church's views on gay and divorced couples is too harsh.

Peter Turkson, 76, from Ghana, could also be the next pope.

Not only that, but he would be the first black pope in centuries.

His concerns align with that of the late pope Francis, including the climate crisis, poverty, and economic justice.