In a recent outing that has garnered significant media attention, Prince William and his eldest son, Prince George, were spotted at the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals in France. The father-son duo, both donning matching navy suits and red ties, were there to support Wales as they took on Argentina at the Stade de Marseille.
The match was not just a casual outing for the royals. Prince William, as the longstanding patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, has a deep-rooted connection to the sport and the team. This was evident in his passionate support for Wales during the game. This appearance at the 2023 Rugby World Cup wasn't Prince William's first; he had previously attended a group stage match between Wales and Fiji last month in France, where the Welsh team emerged victorious with a score of 32-26.
However, a particular moment during the match has become the focal point of media discussions. Both Page Six and Geo TV reported that Prince William appeared to be scolding his 10-year-old son during the game. Page Six mentioned, "The Prince of Wales wagged his finger in his 10-year-old son's face while attending a match between Wales and Argentina in France's Stade de Marseille." The exact reason for this interaction remains unclear, but it has certainly piqued the interest of royal watchers and the public alike.
Prince William & George attend the Rugby at Marseilles Its a beautiful thing to see.
There is such affection between Father & son as William guides George into becoming more comfortable to being in the spotlight.#PrinceofWales #PrinceGeorge #Rugby #Royals #Royalty… pic.twitter.com/ogCKZKL0kZ — Jo_March62 (@jo_march62) October 14, 2023
While the Prince of Wales and Prince George were engrossed in the rugby match, Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, was notably absent. As the patron of the Rugby Football Union and Rugby Football League, Kate supports England when it comes to rugby. This distinction in rugby loyalties between the royal couple is well-known. In fact, Kate is scheduled to attend the match between England and Fiji, which will also be held at the Stade de Marseille.
The potential for England and Wales to face each other in the finals of the Rugby World Cup would be historic, as two U.K. teams have never reached the last round of the same tournament. If this were to happen, it would undoubtedly be a thrilling moment for the royal couple, who have previously showcased their friendly rivalry during the Wales vs. England Six Nations rugby match in Cardiff earlier this year. During that match, England, supported by Kate, defeated Wales, which Prince William was cheering for.
Prince William's support for both England and Wales in different sports has been a topic of discussion in the past. As the President of the Football Association, he is a fervent supporter of the England soccer team. He once mentioned, "I support both. I support England more in the football but Wales in the rugby," highlighting his diplomatic stance when it comes to sports.
The recent rugby outing is a testament to the close bond between Prince William and Prince George. Such public appearances provide a glimpse into the royal family's personal moments, making them all the more special for those who follow the lives of the royals.