Prince William Celebrates Historic Wales Win With Surprise Message Ahead of India Trip
Prince William has celebrated a historic achievement by the Wales rugby team, taking time to fulfil an important duty as Prince of Wales ahead of his upcoming visit to India for the Earthshot Prize ceremony.
The future King, who is patron of the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU), congratulated the team following their remarkable 35-28 victory over New Zealand at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff on Saturday.
The result marked Wales’s first win against the All Blacks in 73 years, making it a historic occasion for Welsh rugby and its supporters. William was quick to acknowledge the team’s achievement through a personal message.
“What a fantastic result by the Wales rugby team today!” the Prince wrote.
He continued: “My congratulations to the players, coaches and everyone who played a part. You have given fans across Wales a day they will never forget.”
William is a keen sports enthusiast and has maintained a close connection with Welsh rugby through his royal patronage. The position was previously held by Queen Elizabeth II before being passed to her grandson in 2016.
The royal family’s association with rugby also extends to the English game. Around the same time William became patron of the WRU, Prince Harry held the royal patronage of the Rugby Football Union (RFU), which represents English rugby. Following Harry’s decision to step back from his senior royal role in 2020, Princess Kate subsequently took over the patronage.
William’s congratulatory message comes at a busy time for the Prince and Princess of Wales. Kensington Palace has confirmed that Kate will accompany her husband on his upcoming visit to Mumbai, India, for the 2026 Earthshot Prize ceremony.
Founded by Prince William, the Earthshot Prize aims to discover and support practical solutions to protect the natural environment and tackle the climate crisis. The initiative recognises people and projects developing innovative ways to address some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges.
The Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to arrive in Mumbai on Monday, November 16, where they will undertake several engagements ahead of the awards ceremony on Tuesday. Further activities are also planned during their visit.
As William prepares for the international engagement, his message to the Wales rugby team highlights his continued involvement in his responsibilities as Prince of Wales. For Welsh supporters, the historic victory has provided a memorable moment, made even more special by the future King’s personal congratulations.
