Just like the rest of the nation’s football fans, Prince William was “gutted” after England’s 2026 World Cup dreams were dashed last week following a devastating down to the wire 1-2 loss to Argentina in the semi-finals.
“Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you. Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament,” the Prince of Wales, who is the royal patron and former president of England’s Football Association, wrote on his social media page after the match.
“The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high.”
While he missed out on the 2026 World Cup, William has been known to cheer on England fiercely from the stands over the years, proving he’s just as much a football fan as the rest of us. As the World Cup draws to a close and England takes home a respectable third place, see some of William’s most memorable spectator moments…
© Getty ImagesFierce fan
William was up on his feet as he animatedly celebrated a goal by England’s Bukayo Saka in the team’s 2024 Euro quarter-final match against Switzerland. The royal looked every inch the football fan from the stands in Germany as he pumped a fist in the air.
© Getty ImagesLike father, like son
William’s eldest son, Prince George, seems to be following in his dad’s footsteps as an avid football supporter.
The father-son duo looked equally invested while cheering on Aston Villa FC in the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter final match against Paris Saint-Germain in Paris in April 2025.
© Getty ImagesMatching expressions
Like any football fan, William looks like he’s experienced all the emotions while watching the sport.
The Prince of Wales was again joined by his son George for the UEFA Euro 2024 final match between Spain and England. George mirrored his dad’s shocked expression as the pair both had their hands to their faces while the match, which ended in a 2-1 loss for England, kept them in proper suspense.
© Getty ImagesProud supporter
William is a well-known long-time Aston Villa supporter, going back to his school days. The royal truly backs his team, and got right into the game-day spirit for Aston Villa’s match against Nottingham Forest during the UEFA Champions League in May 2026.
The royal ecstatically celebrated as his team scored a second goal in the match, which ended in a 4-0 victory for Aston. William must have been happy about that!
© Getty ImagesThumbs up
Aston Villa’s victory in the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 League Phase MD2 match got a double thumbs up reaction from the Prince of Wales.
The royal watched the match amongst the crowd and appeared to be pretty happy with Aston’s 1-0 victory.
© Getty ImagesGo team!
William was back to barrack for his team in the UEFA Europa League final match against SC Freiburg on 20 May. Once again, the royal got right into the football frenzy as he was seen screaming from the stands.
© Getty ImagesIn suspense
William was on the edge of his seat for the UEFA Champions League 2024/25 quarter final between Aston Villa and Paris Saint-Germain.
The royal had his hand on the railing as he kept his eyes glued to the match happening below.
© Getty ImagesRange of emotions
It was a tough one for Aston Villa who suffered a 5-4 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain.
The match had the Prince of Wales experiencing a rollercoaster of emotions, at one point covering his face as he looked a bit stressed.
