The Prince of Wales has publicly shared his enthusiastic support following a landmark announcement that could see a major global football tournament return to British shores.
Historic Bid for Women's Football
In a significant move for UK sport, the four football associations of England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland have officially submitted a joint bid to FIFA to host the 2035 Women's World Cup. This submission stands as particularly notable as there are currently no other bidders in the running for the 48-team tournament.
The ambitious proposal includes plans to utilise 22 stadiums across 16 cities throughout the four nations. If successful, this event would represent the largest single-sport event ever staged in the country and mark the first World Cup on British soil since the men's tournament in 1966.
Royal Endorsement from a Football Fan
Prince William, a well-known football enthusiast and patron of the English Football Association, took to social media to express his personal reaction to the news. He posted a simple but powerful three-word message: "Exciting times ahead!"
The prince clearly denoted this as a personal communication by signing the message with the letter 'W'. His support for women's football is longstanding and genuine. Earlier this year, he travelled to Switzerland with his daughter, Princess Charlotte, to watch the England Lionesses become European champions after their penalty shootout victory against Spain in the Euro 2025 final.
Building on a Legacy of Success
This bid builds upon the successful hosting of the Women's Euro in 2022 by England and the continued momentum from the Lionesses' recent international achievements. Tournament organisers have revealed that an impressive four and a half million tickets would be made available for the 2035 finals.
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has thrown the government's full weight behind the proposal, stating: "Our bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women's World Cup shows the UK's passion for football. The Lionesses' success has inspired girls across our country, and we'll build on that momentum by welcoming millions of football fans from around the world."
This is not Prince William's first involvement in a World Cup bid. Back in 2018, he supported England's attempt to host the men's tournament, even joining a delegation to present to FIFA, though that bid was ultimately awarded to Russia.
