Prince Harry spotted at Rugby World Cup final
Prince Harry has cheered on England at the Rugby World Cup Final after the Queen sent him with a pep talk for the team.
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Prince Harry has cheered on England at the Rugby World Cup Final in Japan after the Queen sent him with a pep talk for the team.
The Duke of Sussex was spotted with Fumihito Crown Prince Akishino in the stands during the showdown between England and South Africa at International Stadium in Yokohama.
Queen Elizabeth II sent a good luck message to the England team ahead of their clash with South Africa on Saturday, telling Eddie Jones’s side they have “inspired many people.”
The Queen added that the team’s performances have been a delight to watch.
“Your performances during the tournament have delighted supporters, and inspired many people throughout the country,” the British monarch said in a message she gave to Harry to pass on to the team.
“I send my congratulations to the England team, management and support staff on reaching the 2019 Rugby World Cup Final, together with my very best wishes for a memorable and successful match.”
Prince Harry delivered the message to England’s Captain Owen Farrell and his team ahead of the match at the 72,300 capacity stadium.
Harry has already sent a number of messages of support to the team, giving them his backing through their campaign – including a photo of his son Archie in a Red Rose jersey.
England’s flanker Sam Underhill said: “As a group we’ve had a couple of messages from Prince Harry.
“He sent us a nice message of support, which was nice to receive.
“He showed his little lad in an England shirt, so that was a nice touch. I’m still waiting on my personal message!”
England were bidding to win the World Cup for a second time — they beat an Australia side coached by Jones in the dying seconds of extra-time in the 2003 final.
But the Springboks took the Webb Ellis Cup for a third time.
The last time they won it in 2007 they beat England and Jones was a consultant for the winners.
Prince Harry also sent a message ahead of travelling to Japan.
His wife Meghan, who has stayed in England, revealed their five-month-old son Archie will wear a mini England jersey when they watch the final on TV.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson released a confident goodwill message.
“I think I speak on behalf of millions of people in this country in wishing the best of luck to England in the World Cup final against South Africa,” he said.
Before heading to the stadium, Harry went to see a group of young Japanese para-athletes in Tokyo.
The royal was seen laughing and chatting with kids as they played boccia – a ball sport – at Para Arena.
On Harry and Meghan’s @SussexRoyal Instagram account, it stated: “The Duke met with local Paralympic hopefuls as they participated in training sessions including wheelchair rugby, boccia, and powerlifting.
“This was especially meaningful to His Royal Highness, who five years ago founded @WeAreInvictusGames – which uses the power of sport to inspire recovery and support rehabilitation of wounded veterans who have physical or mental injuries.
“Japan is the first-ever country to host two Paralympic Games! Next year Tokyo will welcome over 4,000 athletes from around the world, creating a huge opportunity to help celebrate and promote diversity.
“Thank you for the warm welcome, and good luck with all the training and preparation! We look forward to seeing you all compete in the @Tokyo2020 Paralympic Games next year!”
Originally published as Prince Harry spotted at Rugby World Cup final