Prince William is celebrating the increasing interest in women’s football ahead of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 kickoffs.
As Patron of The Football Association, the Prince of Wales dropped by England's national football centre at St. George’s Park on Monday, June 30, to personally wish the Lionesses luck ahead of the championships starting July 2.
The visit began with a private briefing from Head Coach Sarina Wiegman and senior FA officials, who shared insight into the team’s preparations.
The future king then joined a special Made for This Game session featuring junior girls’ football teams inspired by the Lionesses.
“You are the reason they have got into football. They are hugely inspired by what you have done – what you have created,” he later told the Lionesses.
“Great to see the Lionesses inspiring more women and girls to get into football through the Made for This Game campaign,” read a statement shared to the Prince and Princess of Wales’ official Instagram page.
“56% rise in girls’ participation since 2020. The Lionesses continue to inspire,” William noted.
During the visit, William also headed to the locker room to help print names on official England shirts, before handing out jerseys to the final squad himself.
The 42-year-old football fanatic ended the day with a group photo and a pep talk.
“I know there is a huge expectation on you now from your successes – that is good," he told the team. "I know how you are going to play – you are going to play with freedom, you are going to play with camaraderie and teamwork.”
William continued, “I have been saying to a few of you, the men’s team can definitely learn off your camaraderie and your team environment. You are brilliant together. You create a very unique unit… so hold on to that, treasure that, build on it because it’s one of your greatest assets.”
