Prince William reportedly skipped England’s World Cup run because of a family milestone at home. The Prince of Wales is known as a major football fan. However, a new report has claimed he stayed close to his children as Prince George finished at Lambrook. The timing mattered because George is preparing to attend Eton College in September. That made the decision less about football and more about one final family summer together.
Prince William chose family over football, claims report
As per a Hello Magazine report, Prince William did not travel for England’s World Cup games. The report cited The Daily Mail’s Richard Eden, who shared the family reason behind the absence. A family friend reportedly said, “It’s been an important time for the family.” The source added that George had “finished at Lambrook.” Meanwhile, Kensington Palace confirmed the next step, saying Prince George “will attend Eton College from this September.”
However, the report said the decision fit a wider family moment. George, 12, is preparing for boarding school after the summer. Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis were also finishing their school terms. That meant William and Kate Middleton could spend time with all three children before the change. For context, the family has often kept school breaks private. Still, the World Cup absence stood out because William regularly shows strong public support for football.
At the same time, Prince William did not ignore England’s tournament. Hello Magazine noted that he told Travis Kelce on his “New Heights” podcast that he would attend the final. When asked about going, William said, “Definitely, if we’re in the finals.” After England lost 2-1 to Argentina, he posted, “Gutted.” He also wrote that England “gave it everything” and made the country “so proud.” The Prince of Wales thanked everyone “on and off the pitch.” He called them “the most complete England team in a tournament.”
