Princess Kate may not have worn a football shirt - but she's come very close


The mother of Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis is one sporty royal - check out this patriotic fashion throwback…


Kate Middleton during a Rugby League Inclusivity Day at Allam Sport Centre on October 05, 2023 in Hull, England. The Princess of Wales took part in the event as part of her role as Patron of the Rugby Football League and to see the positive impact the Disability Rugby League has on its participants and their families. © Getty
Laura Sutcliffe
Laura SutcliffeFashion and Beauty News Editor
2 minutes ago
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Football fever is rising rapidly with the World Cup 2026 starting in June. The whole of the UK will undoubtedly be cheering on the Three Lions, including the royal family, particularly Prince William, who is Patron of the FA.

In keeping with the beautiful game, football shirts are big news right now, with a huge Google spike in shoppers wanting to get their hands on England shirts, particularly vintage styles from long ago.

Kate Middleton playing at Bacon's College © Evening Standard via Getty Image
The Princess of Wales has always been sporty

Although the Princess of Wales has never been seen publicly wearing one, she has come close, but hers was of the rugby variety!

In 2023, the brunette royal paid a visit to Maidenhead Rugby Club to discuss the Shaping Us campaign and the role the community plays in supporting children. For her sporty outing, the royal put her styling skills to the test, formulating an activewear aesthetic perfect for a day on the pitch.

Kate Middleton smiling in blue rugby top© Getty Images
Kate wore a rugby top in 2023

Prince William's wife sported a pair of chic, slim-fit joggers with an elasticated waist, which she paired with an aqua-toned, high-necked rugby top featuring the English rose, and a pair of white trainers, perfect for showing off her athletic skills on the pitch. Channelling her inner Sporty Spice, the royal opted for a natural, fresh makeup look and wore her chocolate locks swept up in the swishiest of ponytails.

Kate Middleton playing rugby© Getty
The royal had fun as she took part in a rugby game

Prince George and Princess Charlotte support the Three Lions

We know that the royal children will be cheering on the Three Lions from 11 June. 

In 2024, Kate and William shared a delightful image of Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis taken as the young royals cheered on England in the Euro 2024 final from home. In the candid shot taken from behind, the royal children both sported personalised England kits as they watched the match from home in Windsor, while Prince William and Prince George cheered on the Three Lions in Berlin. 

Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis watched the game at their Windsor home with their mum, the Princess of Wales© Instagram
Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis watched the game at their Windsor home with their mum, the Princess of Wales

William and Kate's personal message read: "@england, your teamwork, grit, and determination were an inspiration to all of us, young and old. Congratulations to Spain. W & C." 

. George, Prince of Wales, and William, Prince of Wales, react with disappointment after the final whistle. Photo: Christian © Getty
Prince William and Prince George watching the Euros in 2024

Sadly, it wasn't to be for Gareth Southgate's squad as Spain secured a last-minute goal to secure a win and take home the trophy.

We still believe!

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