Italian Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi indicated that Pope Francis might consider stepping down from his position as head of the Catholic Church if his health significantly worsens. Ravasi explained in an interview with Italian network RTL that the Pope is known for his decisive decision-making and may choose to resign voluntarily if his health hinders him from performing his duties or limits his ability to communicate directly with people.

Ravasi confirmed that the Pope's health is "complex but not critical," noting that Pope Francis has always shown determination to continue working even in the most difficult circumstances, as demonstrated during his arduous trip to the Far East last year. However, he added that if it reaches a point where his direct communication is impeded, the Pope might consider resignation.

These statements came after the Pope was transferred to Gemelli Hospital in Rome due to bronchitis, where he was diagnosed with pneumonia accompanied by asthma, requiring treatment with antibiotics and cortisone.

French Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline did not rule out the possibility of the Pope's resignation, noting that "anything is possible." Although Pope Francis has repeatedly denied rumors of his potential resignation, the deterioration of his health has sparked speculation about the possibility of him following in the footsteps of his predecessor, Benedict XVI, who resigned in 2013 and lived in seclusion in the Vatican until his death at the end of 2022.