In a striking show of royal unity and sporting pride, Prince William has arrived in Basel, Switzerland to attend the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 Final, where England’s Lionesses are set to face Spain in what promises to be a nail-biting showdown.
But the Prince of Wales won’t be the only royal figure cheering from the stands. In a rare international appearance, he will be joined by Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, the two daughters of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain. Their presence adds a powerful layer of symbolism to the event — a coming together of future monarchs, united by a shared love of sport and national pride.
This high-profile appearance marks a significant moment for European royalty. Princess Leonor, heir to the Spanish throne, and her sister Sofía, are not often seen at sporting events together. Their attendance echoes Sofía’s presence at the 2023 Women’s World Cup Final in Australia, where Spain claimed victory over England.
Prince William’s passion for football is well known. As president of the Football Association, he has been a steadfast supporter of the Lionesses throughout the tournament. Following England’s dramatic semi-final victory against Italy — sealed with a 119th-minute goal from Chloe Kelly — William posted a message of celebration on social media:
“Brilliant performance @Lionesses! One game from glory. #WEURO2025”
This appearance marks a personal redemption for the Prince, who faced criticism for missing the 2023 Women’s World Cup Final in Australia. This time, he is making no such omission, standing proudly alongside the national team as they strive for European glory once again.
Adding to the royal enthusiasm, King Charles III also broke his summer silence with a rare public statement praising the Lionesses:
“My wife and I join all our family in wishing you, the proud Lionesses, our warmest congratulations on reaching the final… Your achievements continue to inspire countless girls and women across the nation. May you roar to victory once more. — Charles R.”
This Sunday’s final isn’t just about football — it’s also about legacy and diplomacy. Prince William and King Felipe are distant cousins, both descended from Queen Victoria, and their shared presence in the VIP box reflects a continued bond between the British and Spanish royal families.
Notably, William and the Spanish royals were also seen together during the UEFA Men’s Euro 2024 Final, offering congratulations and warm gestures despite England’s defeat — a moment of mutual grace between future leaders.
While Princess Catherine and the children — Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis — are not expected to attend the final, they are currently enjoying a summer break away from public duties. The Prince and Princess of Wales often prioritize private family time during school holidays.
William’s presence in Switzerland caps off weeks of support for the Lionesses. Earlier in the tournament, he traveled to cheer them on in their group-stage win over the Netherlands and visited the squad at St. George’s Park before the competition began. There, he encouraged them with heartfelt words:
“The men’s team could definitely learn from your camaraderie… You’re brilliant together. Treasure that.”
This weekend’s final is shaping up to be more than just a clash of football titans — it’s a celebration of women’s sport, the enduring power of royalty in modern society, and a generational moment of pride shared across borders.