Prince William issues defiant statement after England's World Cup 2026 defeat to Argentina
Prince William issues defiant statement after England's World Cup 2026 defeat to Argentina
Jasmine Carey & Ellie HookThu, July 16, 2026 at 1:05 PM UTC
0
Prince William has issued a statement -Credit:Karwai Tang/WireImage
Prince William released a statement this evening following England's heartbreaking exit from the World Cup 2026 after a 2-1 defeat to Argentina, dashing hopes of reaching the final and leaving both players and fans devastated.
Shortly after England's elimination, Prince William issued a message thanking the squad and saying the country is "proud" of them. He said, "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 statement continued, "The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high. W." It comes after William sparked concerns when he was missing from the World Cup games.
• Netflix's Shipwrecked leaves out 32 victims' causes of death — here's how they died
• Tom Hanks' son Chet spotted with girlfriend after Tennessee trailer park move
The message bore a "W" signature, indicating it came personally from the prince to the squad and England team. While Prince William did not attend any matches in person, he is understood to have watched every game from his Forest Lodge residence alongside his family.
Reports suggest he had intended to travel to watch the World Cup 2026 Final if England had progressed. Those plans are now off the table following England's tournament exit.
England are out of the World Cup -Credit:VCG via Getty Images
William, 44, is an avid football supporter and has been sending encouraging messages to the team throughout the competition.
Advertisement
England suffered a 2-1 defeat despite netting the opening goal in this evening's clash. Argentina will now advance to Sunday's final, where they will face Spain in a bid to claim the World Cup 2026 title. England will face France in the third-place playoff on Saturday.
Prince William is not anticipated to attend the match in person. Alongside his support for England in international competitions, William is well known as a devoted Aston Villa supporter.
The Prince of Wales is frequently spotted at games, cheering on his team from the Birmingham stands.
Argentina have made it through to the final -Credit:Tyc Sports
He has brought his eldest son Prince George, 12, to numerous matches, with George also having developed a passion for Aston Villa. Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, the youngest children of Prince William and Princess Catherine, have yet to make an appearance in the Aston Villa stands.
The Royal Family also reacted to England's loss.
"Commiserations to Harry and the team," a post on its social media read, sharing a photo of England captain Harry Kane sombrely embracing Jude Bellingham.
The statement continued, "While you Three Lions may be licking your wounds today, you remain the pride of a nation – and will rise again."
The Prince of Wales has expressed a strong passion for football, often seen cheering on Aston Villa FC.
Source: “AOL Sports”
