While admitting he's leaning toward England in the upcoming World Cup which takes place in Qatar, the Prince of Wales insists he also supports Wales 'through the process.'
- Nov 17, 2022
AceShowbiz - Prince William promises to "support both" England and Wales in the upcoming soccer World Cup. Facing criticism for visiting the England squad in his role as the country's FA president before they jetted off to Qatar for the tournament earlier this week because of his position as Prince of Wales, the 40-year-old royal insists he's able to cheer on both sides even though they will meet in the group stages on November 29.
"I support both. I support England more in the football, but Wales in the rugby. When I was growing up, Wales didn't get through to the tournaments but I will be supporting them all the way through. Getting to the World Cup is a big deal and I'll be supporting Wales through the process," William said when speaking during a visit to Cardiff on Wednesday, November 16.
William admitted during a visit to the Senedd he was trying not to upset any sports fans with his "affiliations." He told Elin Jones, Llywydd of the Senedd, "I've got to be able to play carefully with my affiliations because I worry otherwise if I suddenly drop England to support Wales then that doesn't look right for the sport either. So I can't do that."
The prince had visited the England camp earlier this week, where he told the squad, "We're all rooting for you." He added, "Play for each other, support each other, enjoy it, and I'm sure you'll go far."
Welsh actor Michael Sheen was among those who criticised the royal following the release of a video of him handing out shirts to the England players. The "Good Omens" star posted on Twitter, "He can, of course, support whoever he likes and as President of the FA his role makes visit understandable. But surely he sees holding the title Prince of Wales at the same time is entirely inappropriate? Not a shred of embarrassment? Or sensitivity to the problem here?"
