European royals appear at World Cup venues, outreach in focus

2026-07-12

Royal supporters stand out

At the North and Central American FIFA World Cup, royal families from across Europe have been making a noticeable presence at matches in person. In addition to their strong ties with sports bodies, they may also be aiming to close the distance with the public.

King Philippe and others watch

In the quarterfinal between Belgium and Spain in Los Angeles, the United States, in the early hours of Nov. 11 Japan time (noon on Nov. 10 local time), Belgium's King Philippe attended. Although Belgium lost, the royal family's Instagram posted photos of the king shaking hands with each player in the locker room and praising their efforts.

Royalty from several countries arrive

In Norway, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and others watched the match against Brazil. After the game, a scene in which the princess hugged Haaland, who scored two goals, drew attention.

Royal family members from the Netherlands, Sweden, Spain and other countries have also been arriving at the World Cup in succession. Among Japanese royalty, Princess Hisako of Takamado watched two first-round matches, against the Netherlands and Tunisia, from the stadium.

Honorary roles and familiarity

Naotaka Kimizuka, a professor at Komazawa University who is familiar with European royalty, noted that in many countries royal family members serve as honorary officers or patrons of sports organizations such as soccer and have 'a traditionally close relationship' with them. He said megaevents that draw public attention also provide an opportunity to show their everyday activities.

In the Netherlands, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima watched not only their national team's match but also the game involving the autonomous territory of Curacao. Images of them cheering with orange and blue towels, the colors of the two teams, draped around their necks were also posted on the royal family's Instagram and drew more than 280,000 likes.

Kimizuka said that in many countries where soccer is a representative national sport, the sight of royals paying tribute to players on behalf of the nation is helping foster public empathy.

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