21 August 2023 , 10:08
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Prince William watched the Lionesses World Cup final against Spain on TV, but do you think he should have attended the nail-biting match in Australia?
The Prince of Wales, who is the president of the Football Association (FA), sent his “good luck” to the team and apologised for not being present at the game in a video message on Saturday.
Joined by Princess Charlotte, the future king 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.”
Charlotte, holding a football as she sat next to her father on a bench, added: "Good luck, Lionesses." It is believed that William decided not to travel to the Lionesses’ final because a trip Down Under would have involved flying across the world for a very short period of time. Instead, he cheered the team on through his television screen.
Following England's 1-0 defeat, the heir to the throne tweeted: "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."
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However, the royal has been slammed for not travelling to Australia, with Gerry Sutcliffe, a former minister for sport, saying: "I think the Prince of Wales should be there. 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."
Good Morning Britain star Piers Morgan has also criticised the prince, he wrote: "With respect, YRH, you should have got on a plane. Ridiculous that the Queen of Spain is attending the World Cup Final to support her nation’s team, and you won’t be there despite being President of the FA."
Former England goalkeeper Pauline Cope branded it a "shame" that William had not travelled to Australia, saying: "This should have been pencilled in his diary from day dot, after we won the Euros and qualified for the World Cup."
Some reports claim that a matter of Royal protocol is blocking William from attending. 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 William cannot constitutionally visit the country before his father.
Do you think Prince William should have attended the Women’s World Cup final? Vote in our poll HERE to have your say.
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