Prince William, the Prince of Wales, was recently seen enjoying the exhilarating atmosphere of a football match as he cheered on Aston Villa alongside his son, Prince George. The royal duo attended the Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain at the Parc des Princes on 9 April 2025, marking another significant outing for the long-time Villa supporter.
Prince William, 42, has held an enduring allegiance to Aston Villa, a choice that stands out given his London roots. His association with the club began during his school years as he sought to support a team distinct from the popular choices his peers supported, like Manchester United or Chelsea. In a 2015 interview with the BBC, he explained, “A long time ago at school, I got into football, big time. I was looking around for a club to support...I wanted to have a team that was more mid-table, that could give me the more emotional rollercoaster moments.”
On the evening of the match against PSG, Prince William joined football pundits Rio Ferdinand and Ally McCoist on TNT Sports to discuss the game. He referenced earlier performances, noting, "We all saw the Liverpool game...PSG's intensity, in the first leg, they were unbelievable. They gave a lot of pressure, they press very high. So for Unai tonight, and team, it's about managing that press." Ferdinand jested about the Prince's insightful analysis, stating, “Do not go for a punditry job, please, because I could be out of the game.”
The Prince's dedication to Aston Villa has deep roots. Born in June 1982, the same year Villa claimed the European Cup by defeating Bayern Munich, he has developed a 'nice connection' with the club. Reflecting on his youthful experiences, he recounted attending a pivotal FA Cup semi-final against Bolton Wanderers in 2000, which ended in a thrilling penalty shootout victory for Villa. He vividly recalled, “I sat with all the fans with my red beanie on...It was the atmosphere, the camaraderie, and I really felt that there was something I could connect with.”
Despite the club’s relegation in 2016, which might be seen as a setback for other fans, it piqued William's interest and commitment to Aston Villa. He has since been known to engage with the fan community, anonymously participating in online discussions and keeping abreast of club gossip.
The visiting of matches has been complicated by William's royal duties and residence between Kensington Palace and Adelaide Cottage in Windsor. However, he makes efforts to catch Champions League games, often accompanied by childhood friends, including Thomas van Straubenzee and the van Cutsem brothers. This tight-knit group has ties that trace back to their youth, assisted by familial connections forged through close friendships among their parents.
At home, Prince William shares his enthusiasm with his children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—who are all outfitted in Villa merchandise. He has even expressed some superstition regarding their viewing habits, saying, "If we're not doing very well, I start moving round the house quite quickly and I put the children in different positions hoping that's going to change our luck."
Prince George has recently exhibited a keeninterest in Aston Villa, attending several matches alongside his father. Commenting on the importance of these bonding experiences, William stated, “I want George to experience a night-out away from home in a big European competition. I think those memories are really important to create and bringing him along tonight is a big deal to me.”
As the burgeoning football fan follows in his father's footsteps, the royal family’s devotion to Aston Villa continues to foster shared moments and memories amidst their busy lives.
Source: Noah Wire Services