Prince William has sent a personal message of support to the Lionesses after the UK made a bid for the Women’s World Cup.
Taking to social media, the royal commented on the England Women’s team’s post, saying: “Exciting times ahead! W.”
The Prince of Wales became FA President in May 2006 but stepped down in July 2024.
William transitioned into a patron role with the FA and is a renowned supporter of Aston Villa, whose venue could be one of the designated hosts.
The Prince of Wales wrote: ‘Exciting times ahead! W’
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PAThe English FA, Irish FA, Scottish FA and FA of Wales officially submitted their joint bid for the tournament.
The competition would be the largest single-sport event ever staged in the UK, and the first FIFA World Cup hosted in the country since 1966.
The bid includes 22 proposed stadiums, split up between 16 host cities.
England will host 16 stadiums, three in Wales, two in Scotland and one in Northern Ireland, if the plans are approved.
Prince William previously pictured with the Lionesses
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X / Prince and Princess of WalesIt would also be the most accessible tournament ever, with 63 million people living within two hours of a proposed venue.
The bid is built on the vision of “All Together”, a push for women’s football and sport more broadly to empower women worldwide.
The Prime Minister also issued a statement of support for the plans.
Sir Keir Starmer said: “Our bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women’s World Cup shows the UK’s passion for football.
Prince William seen celebrating a goal by the Lionesses at Euro 2025
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GETTY“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 to a tournament that will benefit communities and businesses in host cities up and down the UK.
“With significant investment in school sport and grassroots facilities through our Plan for Change, we’re creating opportunities for girls to play for their national team.”
The competition is predicted to be eight times bigger than Euro 2022, which took place in England.
The deadline to submit a bid is today, with the UK being the current sole bidder.
Prince William supported the Lionesses in Switzerland
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BBCThe Prince of Wales has been heavily involved with the world of football in the past month, starting with a trip to Brazil, where he met iconic footballer Cafu.
William beamed as the future king received a signed football shirt from the World Cup winner.
Back on British shores, the father of three visited Cornwall to inaugurate a newly built access route for Mousehole Association Football Club, resolving long-standing transportation challenges faced by players and staff.
The Prince of Wales learnt of these access problems and orchestrated a solution by assembling a group of businesses to construct a proper road to the facility.
The royal’s intervention has transformed accessibility for the local football team, whose members previously had to traverse the challenging terrain to reach matches.