Prince William gave a rare look at his life outside royal duties during Aston Villa F.C.’s winning celebrations in Istanbul. Surrounded by friends and fellow fans, William fully enjoyed the occasion and looked more like a passionate football supporter than a future king. According to a source, William “dons an occasional disguise’ to blend into a regular life.
Prince William’s super-private life includes disguises, claims source
Witnesses saw Prince William cheering, singing, and celebrating alongside supporters as Aston Villa F.C. secured a memorable win. According to royal insiders, the outing revealed a side of the prince that the public rarely gets to see. Behind the royal titles and public responsibilities, sources say William increasingly values the time he spends with a small circle of trusted friends.
One insider described Prince William as someone balancing two very different roles, a devoted husband and father on one hand, and a future king on the other. At 43, William reportedly likes to step away from royal formality whenever he can. Sometimes, William would reportedly adopt an “iffy” Welsh accent and use a disguise to blend in. Sources said he planned his recent football trip to Turkey just a few weeks in advance and traveled with friends who have been part of his life for many years.
William attended the event with several close friends, including Thomas van Straubenzee, who has known him since their school days, and Edward van Cutsem, another longtime member of his inner circle. Ben Dawes also joined the group. William affectionately refers to him as “Dawesey.”
According to insiders, William has kept his friendships down-to-earth despite being a royal. When he meets with his friends, they reportedly focus on simple activities rather than royal matters. Sources say they often gather at private homes for barbecues, drinks, and sporting events. “Their meetings are infrequent, but cherished,” one source claimed.
The group also reportedly visits quiet pubs in West London, where private rooms allow them to spend time together away from public attention. During these gatherings, they usually talk about family, children, work, and sports rather than royal matters. They also enjoy taking yearly trips together. According to sources, ski vacations and football trips are among their favorite activities.
