White Sox Plan Unique ‘Pope Hat’ Giveaway for Fans

During a public event at the Vatican last year, Pope Leo XIV was seen wearing a Chicago White Sox cap. To reciprocate, the White Sox now plan a special event. On August 11, at their game against the Cincinnati Reds at Rate Field, every attendee will receive a White Sox version of the pope’s ceremonial hat, called a ‘mitre.’

This promotion was initially meant for only 1,500 fans as a ticket giveaway. However, due to high demand, ticket sales tripled shortly after the announcement. Mike Downey, the White Sox senior director of marketing and fan promotions, remarked, ‘We expanded it to an all-fan giveaway. Everyone who comes to the ballpark will get a pope hat.’

Therefore, over 40,000 hats will be distributed at the stadium. The idea began when Pope Leo, born Robert Francis Prevost and a Chicago native, was announced. As a rare case of a baseball fan being pope, the team thought an unprecedented promotion was fitting. Downey explained the challenge in trying to use the pope’s likeness. ‘We approached the Vatican but didn’t get a response. He likely has more pressing matters.’

The inspiration came from fans appearing in homemade pope costumes. To ensure respect, Downey consulted Father Tom Hurley, a local priest, who advised, ‘Focus on the pope hat.’ The hat, known as a mitre, isn’t copyrighted. ‘The shape alone distinguishes it,’ Downey stated.

Finding a manufacturer was tough. Conventional suppliers couldn’t mass-produce this unique item. Downey shared, ‘Promotions companies didn’t have ready structures for pope hats.’ Eventually, they partnered with Cotopaxi to handle production. Even with an increased order of 40,000 hats, Cotopaxi managed the task efficiently.

Despite options for cheaper alternatives, such as a collapsible cardboard version, the team chose quality over cost. ‘Our promotional items are high quality and valued,’ Downey noted. ‘We want them to be impressive.’

The White Sox didn’t seek the Vatican’s approval for the hats but will send a box there. Players and other associates will also receive hats. Even the Cincinnati Reds have the option of getting them. ‘It’s a cultural event for Chicago,’ Downey emphasized.

The hats are set to arrive a week prior to the game. ‘We have almost 25 giveaways this season. Managing resources is essential,’ Downey added confidently, stating there were no concerns about delays.