August 21st 2023.
Sir Geoff Hurst, the hero of England's 1966 World Cup final, has voiced his displeasure at the Royal Family for not attending the Lionesses' Final in Australia. When asked if their absence was a mistake, he replied with a resounding "yes".
He told BBC Radio 4's Today Programme that a member of the Royal Family should have attended the World Cup Final. "It's an English team, a World Cup tournament, a member of the Royal Family should definitely have gone," Sir Geoff said. "No argument at all about that."
The Lionesses have now returned from Australia following their loss yesterday against Spain. This has only served to further fuel the criticism that was directed at Prince William, who received backlash for not attending the match. The situation was made worse by the fact that Spain's Queen Letizia was seen in the stadium in Sydney.
In a video message posted on Saturday, William apologised for not being able to attend the Final and was joined by his daughter Princess Charlotte, who was holding a football. He said: "Lionesses, we want to send you huge good luck for tomorrow. We are sorry we cannot be there in person but we are so proud of everything you have achieved and the millions you’ve inspired here and around the world. So go out there tomorrow and really enjoy yourselves."
This decision has sparked much speculation and led to some branding it a 'shame'. Reports suggest that King Charles, who is also Australia's head of state, has yet to visit the country after succeeding his mother, which would mean that William would be unable to visit before him. Other reports said he chose not to attend as it would involve a short trip across the world.
Former England goalkeeper Pauline Cope said it was a "shame" and added that if it had been the men's World Cup, they would have all been there. Veteran broadcaster Jon Sopel echoed this sentiment, saying it was "inconceivable" that William and the Prime Minister would not have travelled for the men's team.
TV presenter Piers Morgan also weighed in on the matter, tweeting: "With respect, YRH, you should have got on a plane. Ridiculous that the Queen of Spain is attending the World Cup Final to support her nation's team, and you won't be there despite being President of the FA."
It's clear that there was a lot of disappointment that the Royal Family was not present at the Final. With the Lionesses inspiring millions around the world, it would have been a fitting tribute to have a member of the Royal Family in attendance.
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