Despite being the Prince of Wales, Prince William has consistently backed the England football team, a stance that drew criticism from actor Michael Sheen during the 2022 World Cup. The royal has now explained his reasoning.
World Cup Allegiances
During the 2022 World Cup, Sheen criticized William for an "inappropriate" message to the England team, which read: "I'm really here to point out that the rest of the country is behind you. We are all rooting for you, enjoy it." England and Wales were in the same group, yet William supported England then and during the Three Lions' run to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.
Explaining His Position
Asked about his allegiances while visiting the Senedd in 2022, William said: "I tell people I am supporting both. I can't lose. I have supported England since I was quite small. I support England more in the football but Wales in the rugby. When I was growing up Wales didn't get through to the tournaments but I will be supporting them all the way through the process. Getting to the World Cup is a big deal and I'll be supporting Wales through the process."
Role as Prince of Wales
William became Prince of Wales when his father ascended the throne in 2022. However, switching allegiances to the Welsh football team might appear insincere. He has been president of the Football Association (FA) in England since May 2006, a role he accepted saying: "Football is a game I love playing and watching. It is also the national sport and generates extraordinary passions among millions of people."
Aston Villa Fandom
William, who turned 44 in June, is a devoted Aston Villa supporter and has taken his son Prince George to matches. He attended the 2026 Europa League final, where Villa beat Freiburg to win their first major trophy of the century. At the Besiktas Stadium, he spoke to hosts of the Claret and Blue podcast. Co-host Mat Kendrick wrote: "Obviously, being there to witness Villa becoming champions of Europe again was absolutely wonderful, but knowing that Prince William is a fan of our podcast and a fan of our work was something else."
