As England edges closer to the final ahead of a clash with Argentina, fans of both football and the Royal Family are speculating on whether or not the Prince will make an appearance at future games. Other royals from around Europe have been spotted at matches, including King Felipe of Spain, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands. Despite his love for the game and the tournament, Britain’s future King has been nowhere to be seen.
In fact, William did tell Travis Kelce’s podcast that he would travel to watch England if they reached the final. However, he has been rather busy up until this point.
His wife, Catherine, is a patron of the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, so there is an expectation for her to attend Wimbledon. She indeed did that, along with her husband and two eldest children, on one of the tournament’s busiest days.
Meanwhile, Prince George has only just finished his final term at Lambrook school, something that William will see as a significant milestone, and one he would want to be at home to celebrate with his family.
While there are logistical reasons for missing the World Cup games so far, some royal commentators have speculated that there could be a political reason for William to miss the tournament in person so far.
Simon Vigar, a royal commentator and author of The Four Wives of Windsor, told HELLO!’s Right Royal Podcast: “There would likely be some expectation for [William and Donald Trump] to meet.”
“The President will be asking, ‘Where’s your wife?’ Because we know he’s very taken, he’s a big fan of Catherine,” he added. “So yes, he would have had to get involved in the diplomatic stuff. It’s complicated.”
“Royalty has to be used sparingly. Handling this with care gives it a special cachet.”