Princess Kate reminds Prince Harry of his past ahead of his UK return
The Princess of Wales opens doors of Windsor Castle to the Duke of Sussex's former team
January 15, 2026
Princess Kate has opened the doors of Windsor Castle to host some very special guests.
On Thursday, January 15, the Princess of Wales hosted England’s Women’s Rugby Team this week to honour their Women’s Rugby World Cup victory from last year. Marking her second royal engagement of 2026, Kate welcomed the Red Roses in her role as Patron of the Rugby Football Union — a role she assumed in 2022 after Prince Harry gave it up following “Megxit.”
The reception celebrated the Red Roses’ decisive 33-13 win over Canada in September 2025. Players and staff were first treated to a private tour of Windsor Castle, before the team proudly presented the Rugby World Cup trophy to the future queen.
Princess Catherine was unable to attend the final in person, but she made sure her support was felt on the day. Ahead of the match, she shared a message on social media that read: “Good luck England! Wishing the very best of luck to the @redrosesrugby in their Women's Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham today. We're so proud of you! C”.
Rugby has become a shared passion in the Wales household. Prince William serves as Patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, often sparking light-hearted rivalry between the couple.
Their love of sport has also rubbed off on their children. Prince George has joined his parents at Six Nations matches, while Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are already exploring sports at school. Less is known about the sport inclinations of their cousins, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, whose father Prince Harry is expected to visit the UK this month for a court battle with The Daily Mail’s publishers Associated Newspapers Limited.
