Royals celebrate and suffer at the EUROfinal
Joy for one, sorrow for another. Spanish King Philip celebrates EM win with his daughter in cheerful stadium. Sad faces from Prince William and Prince George after English loss.
The Royals couldn't miss the UEFA European Championship final. Prince William, who is the president of the English Football Association and an avid fan of Premier League club Aston Villa, traveled with his eldest son George to Berlin to press the "Three Lions" fingers together live in the stadium against Spain. Spanish King Philip also made the EM final a family affair and brought his 17-year-old daughter, Princess Sofia, to the match. Before the game, all the Royals posed nicely for a group photo on the honorary podium.
However, royal harmony was over when things got serious. Prince William and Prince George experienced a rollercoaster of emotions. Pictures from the stands showed the two royal soccer fans cheering with their team when Spain scored the first goal, slapping hands in front of their faces when England equalized, and jumping joyfully after Spain's second goal. After Spain's 2:1 victory, disappointment was evident on the faces of the British Royals.
Shortly after the final whistle, the heir to the throne posted a story on the official Instagram account of Kensington Palace expressing his sympathy for the team. The post reads: "It just shouldn't have been this time. But we are still so proud of you. Forward, England. W."
King Philip could hold the trophy
King Charles also encouraged the "Three Lions" after their loss. In a statement published on social media, he praised the team's "really great performance." "Even though the victory was denied to you tonight, my wife and I, along with our entire family, are here to encourage you and your team to keep your heads held high." Reaching the final was a "great achievement." The King is convinced that "many triumphs" still lie ahead for the English team.
While the English mourned, the Spaniards rejoiced. King Philip and his daughter, included. The monarch couldn't resist personally congratulating the Spanish national team in the stadium and shaking hands with every player. The EM trophy was also allowed in his hands.
"European Champions!!! You are the best team, you have made us enjoy every game and all of Spain is proud of you. Heartfelt congratulations," wrote King Philip later on in his Instagram story, excitedly.
Prince William's love for soccer extended beyond his club allegiances, as he also showed strong support for the English team during the European Football Championship 2024. The British Monarchy, including King Philip and his daughter, Prince William, and Prince George, attended the final match, leading to a mix of emotions when Spain emerged victorious with a 2:1 score. King Philip, as the Spanish monarch, was thrilled and even had the opportunity to hold the trophy post-match.
