As the countdown to the highly anticipated Women's World Cup final between England and Spain ticks away, a swirling storm of controversy has erupted in England, leaving a distinctly regal void on the grandest stage of women's football. England's bid for global glory in the realm of women's football has collided headlong with a royal standoff that has captured the collective attention of a nation divided.
The stage is set for a monumental clash at Stadium Australia, as England's Lionesses prepare to take on Spain's fierce La Roja. The echoes of history are unmistakable, as England finds itself in a World Cup final for the first time since 1966, when its male counterparts famously lifted the trophy. However, this time the narrative has shifted to the women's stage, and yet the royal reluctance to be present has stirred emotions both deep and divided.
The Spanish royal entourage, led by Queen Letizia and Princess Sofia, is poised to grace the Sydney stadium with its presence, a fitting tribute to the gravity of the occasion. In contrast, Britain's ruling family has opted for a curious absence, eliciting a chorus of criticism that reverberates across the British Isles.
The Prince of Wales won't travel to Australia for the Women’s World Cup final despite the Lionesses’ historic semi-final victory over the host nation. The Prince is understood to have made the decision not to fly due to the distance involved for such a short trip.
'Spain can send its Queen and her daughter...and we send the Culture Secretary.'
As Prince William will not travel to watch the Lionesses in their first World Cup final, @NickFerrariLBC says that 'if it was the blokes, you would have everybody there'. pic.twitter.com/OIiITQZi39— LBC (@LBC) August 18, 2023
At the heart of the controversy is the conspicuous absence of Prince William, a figure intricately intertwined with England's football tapestry. The Prince, who has adorned the role of President of the Football Association for an impressive 17-year tenure, has been an omnipresent patron of the sport. Yet, as the Lionesses approach their defining moment, his seat in the stands remains unoccupied.
Gerry Sutcliffe, a former Minister for Sport, articulated the widespread sentiment: "I think the Prince of Wales should be there… this is a unique moment. It's the World Cup final, and he's the president of the FA." The confluence of his royal stature and his role within the realm of football administration has led many to question his conspicuous absence.
The pages of history have etched vivid portraits of the past, where royal figures stood side by side with their sporting heroes. Queen Elizabeth, during the 1966 men's World Cup, graced Wembley Stadium to present the coveted trophy to captain Bobby Moore. Yet, as England's current generation of Lioneses seizes their moment, the absence of the future king has sparked fervent debate.
The Lionesses, with their prowess and resilience, have captured the fervor of a nation. From their 2022 European Championship triumph on home soil to their triumphant World Cup journey, they have become the embodiment of dreams realized. Their journey has evoked an emotional connection that transcends the boundaries of gender, raising the question of why the Royal presence has not reflected the significance of the occasion.
Critics argue that had it been a men's final, the royal box would be awash with dignitaries, politicians, and prominent personalities. This glaring contrast has illuminated the issue of gender equality in sport, sparking demands for fairness and recognition.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's absence from the stadium, despite the call for a national holiday in the event of a Lionesses' triumph, has compounded the controversy. The juxtaposition of Spain's Queen Letizia and Prime Minister Sunak's positions as they stand beside their teams has laid bare the intricacies of leadership and representation.
The last time England were in a football World Cup final.. women weren’t allowed to play football. Between 1921 and 1971.. the English FA effectively banned women from playing football.
Now, the Lionesses are into the World Cup final. Making history again.#FIFAWWC pic.twitter.com/2es1Mkwi0X— Her Sport (@HerSportDotIE) August 17, 2023
As the Lionesses aim to make history on Sunday, an unbridgeable gap seems to linger between the euphoric stands and the storied halls of power.
Would this happen if the men were in the final? You would certainly put your house on the answer being no!
King Charles, Prince William and Rishi Sunak will not be attending the Women's World Cup final.
If this were the Men they would pay thousands to see it.
The misogyny comes from the top.
RT if these people are a disgrace and the lionesses deserve better.— BladeoftheSun (@BladeoftheS) August 17, 2023
