This weekend, the Prince and Princess of Wales are set to travel to France to attend the Rugby World Cup. This decision follows a recent controversy involving Prince William’s absence from the Lionesses’ World Cup final match last month.
Kate Middleton’s Rugby Patronage
Kate Middleton, aged 41, will fulfill her role as patron of the Rugby Football Union by attending a group stage match between England and Argentina at the Stade de Marseille on Saturday.
Prince William’s Welsh Rugby Patronage
Meanwhile, Prince William, also aged 41 and patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, will be present at the Stade de Bordeaux on Sunday to watch Wales face Fiji.
Prince William’s Previous Absence
Prince William’s decision to not attend the Women’s World Cup final, where England competed against Spain in Australia, sparked controversy. The reasons cited for his absence were the trip’s cost and carbon footprint. Palace sources also suggested that his return for this event might have been seen as tactless, as he had not publicly supported England in this manner for nearly a decade.
Public and Political Reactions
Critics of Prince William’s absence included Mandu Reid, leader of the Women’s Equality Party, who expressed disappointment in the lack of celebration for women’s sports. Labour MP Kate Osborne noted that Prince William and the Football Association President would have attended if it were the men’s final. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, absent due to existing government commitments, was expected to cheer on the Lionesses from Yorkshire.
Prince William’s Previous Absences
It’s worth noting that neither Prince William nor Rishi Sunak attended any of England’s men’s World Cup games in Qatar earlier.
Comparison to Spanish Royal Family
The row over Prince William’s absence intensified when the Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed that Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter, Infanta Sofia, would attend the event in Sydney to support national football. Although King Felipe had other official duties, Letizia visited the Spanish team before their departure and delivered a motivating speech to the players and coaching staff.
FA CEO’s Statement
FA chief executive Mark Bullingham clarified that they had always known Prince William would not attend the Women’s World Cup final but praised his continuous support for the team. In a video before the final, Prince William and Princess Charlotte wished the Lionesses luck, expressing pride in their achievements.
The Couple’s Summer Break
The decision for the royal couple to attend the Rugby World Cup in France comes after they enjoyed a summer break in Balmoral with the royal family. This marked the first summer break at the estate since the Queen’s passing a year ago.
Prince Andrew’s Presence
Notably, Prince Andrew was seen sitting beside Prince William in a car on their way to church in Balmoral. Royal commentators saw this as a statement of family unity, despite Prince Andrew’s ongoing challenges. There is no indication of Prince Andrew returning to public duties, given his lack of popularity and controversy surrounding him.
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