Prince William's Euro 2024 trip sparks backlash after fallout from previous snub

Kensington Palace confirmed that William will watch Gareth Southgate's side take on Denmark at the Frankfurt Arena on Thursday, June 20.

The heir-to-the-throne, who will celebrate his 42nd birthday the following day, is not expected to be accompanied by any other members of the Royal Family.

The Princess of Wales is currently away from public duties due to her ongoing cancer treatment.

In addition, the match will fall on a school night for Prince George, 10, Princess Charlotte, nine, and Prince Louis, six.

William, president of the Football Association, faced criticism last year for not attending the Women's World Cup final in Australia when the Lionesses lost to Spain.

It was the first time the Lionesses had reached the final of a World Cup, and the first time an England football team had competed in a World Cup final since the men's side beat West Germany in 1966.

William reportedly harboured concerns over the length of the journey, with the game being played in Sydney, Australia.

At the time, the royal was forced to issue an apology to the Lionesses following the public outrage.

Speaking alongside Princess Charlotte in adorable footage, the Prince of Wales said: “We’re sorry we couldn’t be there in person. We’re so proud of everything you’ve achieved and the millions you’ve inspired here and around the world."

Spanish royalty was present at the final, with Queen Letizia travelling to Australia.

She was accompanied by her daughter Infanta Sofia, 17, to show the country’s “commitment” to national football.

The announcement that the Prince of Wales will travel to Germany next week has sparked a backlash from some fans, still bitter that William did not travel to Sydney in 2023.

One royal watcher posted on social media: "So he can go to Germany for the men’s game, but wouldn’t bother going to see the women play in the finals in Oz, just because it fell during his super long summer vacation. Got it. William only shows up for football."

Another wrote: "He’s ridiculous, football again? That’s all he does, unless it’s the Women’s game and then that's a no!"

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In addition, a royal fan commented: "He is attending a Group Stage match in Germany, yet he couldn't be bothered to attend the FA Cup Women's final. This is really taking the p***." One social media user posted: "Yet he couldn’t go watch the Women’s finals…"

However, several fans were pleased to hear Prince William would be supporting the England Euro squad in Germany.

One fan wrote: "Gorgeous news." Another said: "Yay that’s wonderful."

In addition, someone commented: "Splendid…supporting our boys."