By Ben Kerrigan-
The Prince of Wales has apologized for not flying to Australia to watch England in the Women’s World Cup final, as his conspicuous absence was contrasted with that of Spanish royalty, which has supported its team that squares up against England tomorrow (Sunday) .
Millions will watch the match live on BBC One, with build-up from Australia starting at 09:45, with the winners becoming the fifth different nation to be crowned world champions in the ninth edition of the tournament.
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Critics questioned Prince William’s absence from the Women’s England game, which saw the Lionesses secure their place in the World Cup final by defeating Australia, given his high-profile role as the FA’s President.
The Prince’s decision which was reportedly influenced by concerns over the lengthy journey to Sydney for the game holds little currency in the minds of his many critics.
Instead, he will watch the match on television as he cheers the Lionesses on.
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Prince William’s absence from international football events is not a novel occurrence, as also did not travel to Qatar for the men’s World Cup in October, and reportedly, had England progressed further in the tournament, he had no plans to attend.
However, he attended many of the matches for the men’s European championships.
In stark contrast to Prince William’s absence, Spanish royalty is set to be present at the World Cup final. Queen Letizia’s planned attendance at the game in Australia adds a layer of symbolism to the event.
The Spanish royal presence signifies a dedication to supporting women’s football and sending a message of unity and encouragement to the players.
This stark difference in royal involvement highlights the varying approaches taken by different nations’ royals in their support for sports and their role in fostering a positive environment for athletes.
In a video message with Princess Charlotte, who is holding a football, he said they were “so proud” of the Lionesses.
Prince William, who is president of the Football Association, was to show adequate support by being physically present at the crunch final to be watched by the entire British public.
In a further shortfall of moral support, British prime minister, Rishi Sunak , will also not attending Sunday’s final against Spain in Sydney.
Luck
In an attempt to mitigate the weight of the criticism, he sent a message posted on social media, Prince William said: “Lionesses, I want to send you a huge good luck for tomorrow, we’re sorry we can’t be there in person but we’re so proud of everything you’ve achieved and the millions you’ve inspired here and around the world.
“So go out there tomorrow and really enjoy yourselves.”
Princess Charlotte , who also recorded a similar video message with her father ahead of the 2022 European Championships final – ended the video by saying: “Good luck Lionesses.”
In light of the controversy, Prince William issued an apology to the Lionesses, expressing regret for not being able to attend the semi-final match in person. In a heartfelt video statement, Prince William and Princess Charlotte conveyed their well-wishes to the team, acknowledging their remarkable achievements and the inspiration they have ignited worldwide. The video showcased the Prince’s appreciation for the Lionesses’ efforts, despite his inability to be physically present at the game.
Despite his absence from certain matches, Prince William’s commitment to the growth and development of football in the UK is evident through his ongoing dedication to the sport.
But missing such an important and historic game was not a good idea.
As the world anticipates the historic Women’s England vs. Spain World Cup final, the discussions surrounding royal presence in sports will evolve, highlighting the complexities of their role as both national symbols and advocates for positive change.
Broadcaster Gabby Logan criticized both Prince William and Rishi Sunak for not attending the final in person.
She told the BBC’s Newscast podcast: “I have to say I’m disappointed that Prince William isn’t going with his role at the FA and the history that is going to happen and be created on Sunday, one way or the other.
“I just wonder would neither of those people come to a men’s World Cup final, would Britain not be represented by at least one of those two figures at a men’s World Cup, and I can’t help thinking that they would be there.
“I don’t know what prior engagements that can’t be moved or if there’s something that’s enormously important that is getting in the way of this, but it does feel like we should have somebody of national (importance).”
Former culture minister Lord Vaizey has also already called on them to fly to Sydney.
“PM and Prince William should go to World Cup Final (if there’s still time). It would be unthinkable for them to miss a men’s final,” he said on Friday.
Gerry Sutcliffe, who was sports minister in Gordon Brown’s government, told the Telegraph: “I know it’s a long way and I’m sure he has family commitments but this is a unique moment, it’s the World Cup final and he’s the president of the FA.”
Downing Street has previously said there are “no plans” for an extra bank holiday if England lift the trophy.
A government spokesperson said: “Winning the World Cup would be a massive moment for the country and make no mistake we’ll find the right way to celebrate.
“As Sarina Wiegman herself has said, the first thing to do is focus on the final and the whole country will be rooting for the Lionesses this weekend”.
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