Pope Leo on the motorcycle (Vatican).

BMW presented a motorcycle as a gift to Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday.

The Vatican said in a statement: “In a striking scene at St. Peter’s Square, Pope Leo XIV was seen on a white BMW R18 motorcycle specially designed by the German company in a papal style.”

According to the statement, “This unique masterpiece was first displayed to the crowds during the Wednesday general audience before being taken into the Vatican where the Pope himself signed and blessed it.”

The Vatican added: “But the value of this gift goes beyond symbolism, as the motorcycle will be auctioned publicly in Munich on October 18, and all proceeds will be dedicated to supporting a charitable project for children in Madagascar, supervised by Missio Österreich, the Catholic mission in Austria.”

The statement concluded: “With this initiative, a German technological touch turns into a global message of solidarity, where passion and innovation meet mercy and hope.”