King Charles III and the Prince of Wales are expected to make separate trips to the United States in 2026 as part of efforts to revive a trade deal with the Trump administration, according to reports. Advanced talks are under way for a visit by the King, likely in April, while William is expected to travel later in the year during the World Cup, which is being hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July.
The visits would be the first by a reigning British monarch since Queen Elizabeth II's trip in 2007. The plans come after the US paused a multibillion-pound investment deal with the UK over trade disagreements. The £31bn agreement, announced during President Donald Trump's state visit, included major commitments from US tech firms such as Microsoft and Google.
Washington cited a lack of progress in lowering trade barriers as the reason for the pause, a blow to the UK government which had touted the deal as a key achievement. Downing Street confirmed that 'active conversations' were ongoing, but acknowledged that negotiations were complex. Sticking points include Britain's digital services tax and demands for greater access to UK markets for US farmers.
The Prince of Wales is expected to visit during the World Cup in his capacity as President of the Football Association, with England's third group match scheduled for 27 June in New Jersey. It is possible that William's visit coincides with the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence on 4 July. The King's visit may be timed around April, and he is not expected to be accompanied by the Prime Minister; instead, Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper is likely to represent the government.
Buckingham Palace declined to comment on upcoming engagements. The last visit by a reigning monarch was in 2007 when Queen Elizabeth II accepted an invitation from President George W. Bush.
