Leo’s Argentina visit draws crowds and VIP access scrutiny

Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Argentina drew large crowds to a Mass in Córdoba, while his earlier celebration in Buenos Aires prompted criticism over preferential access for invited guests and questions about who arranged and funded the event.

The Córdoba Mass took place at the Argentine Aircraft Factory airfield before about 650,000 worshippers, according to Vatican figures. Leo addressed the city’s religious heritage and urged Catholics to live out their faith. The gathering was part of his first visit to Latin America as pope, a 12-day tour that included Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.

The Buenos Aires Mass was held Monday at the Monumento a los Españoles in the Palermo neighbourhood. One account said more than two million people attended, with many waiting outdoors in high temperatures, while a smaller group had access to reserved areas with seating, food and protection from the sun. The arrangements drew criticism from some participants and volunteers, who questioned the contrast between those facilities and the conditions faced by worshippers and event workers.

Journalist Eduardo Feinmann said the Buenos Aires City government handled invitations to entertainment figures. Journalist...