Prince William has interrupted his half-term break in order to share a special message.
The Prince of Wales, 43, visited St George’s Park in Staffordshire earlier this month to meet the team behind England’s campaign for the football World Cup this summer.
In a video shared by Kensington Palace’s social media team on Wednesday, the Prince spent time with staff working with England manager Thomas Tuchel, including coaches, medical and sports science teams.
He also met those who organise the logistics of international football, including the team’s travel and security.
William, who is known to be a huge football fan and recently celebrated Aston Villa’s Europa League win, told those present: “You don’t get as much acknowledgement or credit as you deserve. Not everyone gets to see all the hard work you put in.
“The success of the players is from the foundations you build, so thank you. All of the things are coming in a line now: the Lionness’ successes they’ve had, two men’s Euros finals, it feels like we are closing in on that ambition.
“Go with my blessings and my best wishes to all of you. Enjoy it, look after each other and give your best. I’m sure we will do well, so good luck.”
The football World Cup takes place from 11 June to 19 July 2026, and England’s first game will be against Croatia on 17 June. In the 2022 tournament, England reached the quarter-finals but lost 2-1 to France.
William’s half-term break
Prince William And Kate are currently taking time away from public duties as their children are on half-term from Lambrook School.
While it’s not known where they are spending the week-long break, they could be spending it quietly at their Forest Lodge home in Windsor, or perhaps they are making the most of the hot weather by travelling elsewhere.
Last month, for example, the family enjoyed a sunny vacation to Cornwall, including boat trips and playing cricket on the beach. The previous year, they headed to their Norfolk abode, Anmer Hall, for Easter.
The couple typically take a break from engagements when Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight, are not at school.
© Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty ImagesThey have no scheduled engagements lined up for this week. Last week, Prince William enjoyed a two-day trip to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, following Kate’s official return to international travel with a visit to Italy the week before.
William’s love for football
Prince William is the patron of the Football Association and has supported Aston Villa football team since he was a child.
© CameraSport via Getty ImagesHe has often been seen in the stands cheering on his teams and gets just as competitive as anyone else!
Prince George has followed in his footsteps with his love of Aston Villa, though Princess Charlotte has chosen to support Chelsea, like the Princess of Wales. Louis, however, is apparently yet to make up his mind, and supports “five different teams”, according to his father.
Last week, William travelled to Istanbul to watch Aston Villa play SC Freiburg in the Europa League final, partying late into the night when they won the title.
His charity and official work programmes have also emphasised the crucial role that sport plays in emotional and mental well-being. For example, he spearheaded Heads Up to raise awareness of mental health in sport.
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