Prince William did not attend a single England World Cup match - here's why

The Prince of Wales did not travel across the Atlantic to support England during their World Cup campaign as family commitments took precedence over his passion for football.

A source close to the Wales family explained the reasoning to the Daily Mail: "It's been an important time for the family, as George has finished at Lambrook."

The 12-year-old prince has completed his time at the Berkshire preparatory school, marking a significant milestone for the family.

Come September, Prince George will follow in his father's footsteps by enrolling at Eton College.

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Kensington Palace confirmed the move in an official statement: "Kensington Palace can confirm that Prince George will attend Eton College from this September."

The transition to boarding school represents a major change for the young royal.

However, George is not the only child requiring his father's attention during this period.

Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis are likewise ending their own academic terms, presenting the Wales family with a precious opportunity to spend quality time together before their eldest begins his new chapter at the prestigious Windsor institution.

Royal aides are also said to have been keen to avoid an awkward meeting between Donald Trump and William, given the war in Iran and subsequent public spats between Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and the President.

This is despite King Charles's successful diplomatic efforts in April, when he visited the US on a four-day trip.

The sovereign appears to share a friendly relationship with the US President, who consistently lauded the monarch as "fantastic" and "a great King".

Speaking on Travis Kelce's New Heights podcast, William indicated he would have made the journey had England progressed further.

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"Definitely, if we're in the finals," he remarked when questioned about attending in person.

There, he also admitted that his father, King Charles, "hates football".

But even while remaining on home soil, the Prince of Wales, who is the Patron of the Football Association, has been vocal in backing the national team throughout the tournament.

Following the agonising 2-1 defeat against Argentina last night, the heir to the throne took to social media to send his commiserations.

"Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you," he wrote.

"Thank you to everyone on and off the pitch, for an incredible tournament.

"The fight and belief you have shown has inspired us all. The most complete England team in a tournament. Hold your heads high. W".

The Three Lions face France in Saturday's third-place playoff.

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