21 August 2023 , 08:43
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England hero Sir Geoff Hurst claimed that a member of the Royal Family should “definitely” have attended the Women's World Cup final.
The Lionesses suffered heartache in Sydney on Sunday morning despite an awe-inspiring campaign. Olga Carmona’s first-half strike condemned Sarina Wiegman ’s side to defeat and meant that they missed out on the chance to become reigning European and World champions.
Despite support coming from all over the nation for the Lionesses, there was no Royal presence at Stadium Australia. Prince William, who is head of the FA, was initially expected to be at the match but it was confirmed that he was unable to attend.
That decision has since frustrated Hurst, the scorer of a hat-trick in the 1966 victory over Germany at Wembley. Asked if a member of the royal family not attending was a mistake, he told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme: “Yes, I do. I think if the royals attend the men’s game, they should definitely.
“It’s an English team, a World Cup tournament, a member of the royal family should definitely have gone. No argument at all about that.”
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It has not yet been confirmed the reason behind Prince William not attending the final, but there have been a few suggestions. Some reports claim that Royal protocol stopped him from travelling to Australia.
Prince William and Charlotte send message to Lionesses - as he apologises for no-showDo you think Prince William should have attended the final? Share your thoughts in the comments below
King Charles, who became Australia’s head of state after the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, has not yet visited the country. That would mean that constitutionally Prince William would not be able to visit the country before his father.
It has also been suggested that Australia would have been responsible for paying for any added security needed during the trip. The Australian state of Victoria recently pulled out of hosting the 2026 Commonwealth Games citing ballooning cost
Elsewhere, there were also suggestions that the Royals avoided travelling over due to climate reasons - a trip to Australia would have seen them take a long-distance flight for just a short stay down under.
Despite not being able to attend the game, Prince William still sent a few messages to the Lionesses. Speaking in a video alongside Princess Charlotte, he said: "Lionesses, we 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."
Following the defeat, he said: "Although it’s the result none of us wanted, @Lionesses you have done yourselves and this nation proud. Your spirit & drive have inspired so many people and paved the way for generations to come. Thank you for the footballing memories. Congratulations to Spain. W"