Prince William visits St George's Park and backs England to win the World Cup

The Prince of Wales told England’s backroom staff he believes the men’s team is ‘closing in’ on World Cup glory during a private visit to St George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent on 11 May, footage released on England’s official X account on Wednesday confirmed.

William, patron of the Football Association, met coaches, analysts, and medical, nutrition and sports science personnel alongside manager Thomas Tuchel. The visit was framed as a personal thank-you to those who work out of the public eye.

“I just wanted to take the opportunity really to come and see the team behind the team today and say thank you,” the prince told staff. “Not everyone gets to see all the hard work you put in but the entire success of the players comes from what you guys do, from the foundations you built, so thank you.”

Reflecting on England’s recent tournament record, William pointed to the Lionesses’ successes and two consecutive men’s European Championship finals as signs of momentum. “All of the things are coming in a line now,” he said. “It kind of feels like we’re closing in on that ambition” — a reference to England’s bid to end a 60-year wait for a men’s World Cup title.

Tuchel used the occasion to highlight the growing scale of the support operation. “It gets bigger and bigger — the team behind the team — so many specialists, from nutritionists to analysts and set pieces,” the German told the prince.

William closed his address to staff with an informal send-off: “Go with my blessings and my best wishes to all of you. Enjoy it. Look after each other, and give it your best. I’m sure we will do well.” He added a hands-pressed-together gesture as he wished them good luck.

The prince, whose club Aston Villa won the Europa League last week, is reported to be planning a trip to the tournament, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, at some point in July.