Prince William Discusses Football on Travis Kelce's Podcast
Prince William appeared on the podcast hosted by Travis Kelce, the American football player soon to marry pop star Taylor Swift, where he shared his views on football and the ongoing World Cup. The conversation focused on the tournament, which the US is co-hosting, and included a light-hearted correction from William, who emphasized that the sport is "football" rather than "soccer."
During the 28-minute episode, William revealed that his father, King Charles, "hates football," despite previously identifying as a Burnley supporter. The Prince of Wales also expressed his intention to attend the World Cup in the US if England reaches the final.
"They make it to the finals, you're gonna make the trip across the pond?" Travis asked.
"Definitely. If we're in the finals," said Prince William.
"Oh, I love it, man," said the podcast host.
"Well, maybe. Maybe. See you both there for the final," said William to Travis and his brother Jason, who co-hosts the show.
Reflections on US History and Previous Meetings
William was also asked about the United States' 250th anniversary, to which he responded with a mix of humor and respect for the longstanding relationship between the UK and the US.
"There were times... There were times..." teased William. "But I'd like to think the UK and the US would be together for those 250 years. Oh, yeah, it's a good brotherhood."
The podcast included recollections of a previous meeting at a US football game held at Wembley Stadium. Jason Kelce recalled feeling uncertain about how to handle his beer when meeting the royals.
"Yeah, it wasn't a joke. It was real. Well, you want to be respectful and know the protocols," he said.
Jason also mentioned, "Princess Charlotte was still the highlight for me. I had four daughters as well, so, I mean, she was great."
"Now, congratulations. Having four daughters. I don't know how you do that," said William.
"That is definitely a difficult task. The hardest job," said Kelce.
World Cup Insights and Football Philosophy
The episode appears to have been recorded a few weeks prior, referencing England's opening game against Croatia. William was asked about what would define success at the World Cup.
"I think winning it," he said.
He also discussed England manager Thomas Tuchel's approach, noting its more attacking and fluid style compared to previous tactics.
"Thomas, I think, prefers to go a bit more out there - and if we lose, we lose playing the way we want to play. And if you're going to score four goals, we'll score five. And I think that's a really good attitude," said Prince William.
Football Culture and Personal Support for Aston Villa
Prince William reflected on the emotional nature of football fandom, describing how his support for Aston Villa intensified after the team was relegated.
"So I think weirdly, this sounds very odd, but I got into football more than ever when we got relegated," he told the podcasters.
"So when Aston Villa went from Premiership to Championship, I suddenly really enjoyed the battle to get back in the Premiership."
He explained how the team's results affect his mood.
"My weekend goes from being either the best we can in the world when we win... Or frankly, I don't want to see anyone on Monday morning because I'm really down."
William recounted becoming an Aston Villa supporter after watching a game against Bolton 26 years ago.
When asked if his football passion was inherited, William clarified:
"Absolutely not. My father hates football," the prince replied.
He also cautioned the US hosts about some of the more boisterous aspects of football support.
"Those rowdy evenings, those long afternoons, a few drinks, the social elements of it. You know, there are plenty of chants you guys don't want to hear. They're pretty spicy. They're quite rude to broadcast."
Role as Football Association President and Footballing Legends
William shared his perspective on his role as president of the Football Association.
"Just don't mess up," he said, offering succinct management advice.
The hosts invited him to name some of the greatest English football players, imagining a footballing Mount Rushmore.
William's list included Sir David Beckham, Gary Lineker, Harry Kane, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and Sir Bobby Charlton.
"Harry Kane could end up being one of the greatest English strikers we've ever seen," he said, a statement that proved prescient as Kane later became England's all-time leading scorer.
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