Prince William Says He’s ‘Gutted’ After England Falls to Argentina in World Cup Semifinal

The Prince of Wales praised England’s “fight and belief” after the team’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup

NEED TO KNOW Prince William shared a heartfelt message after England's World Cup semifinal loss to Argentina, saying he was "gutted" but proud of the team England's defeat also means the Prince of Wales will no longer travel to the United States for the World Cup final after previously saying he'd only attend if England advanced Earlier this month, William praised the U.S. as a "fantastic" World Cup host and said his definition of a successful tournament for England was simple: "Winning it." Prince William is sharing his support for England after the team's World Cup run came to an end.

Shortly after England's 2-1 loss to Argentina in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal on Wednesday, July 15, the Prince of Wales shared a message on X praising the squad's effort throughout the tournament. "Gutted. England, you gave it everything and we are all so proud of you," William wrote.

He continued, "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 🏴." After Anthony Gordon gave England a second-half lead, Argentina rallied with two late goals, ending England's hopes of reaching the World Cup final for the first time since 1966. Lautaro Martínez scored the winner in stoppage time off a Lionel Messi assist, sending Argentina through to Sunday's championship match against Spain in New Jersey.

With England's loss, Prince William will no longer be making the trip to the U.S. for the World Cup final after previously saying he would only attend if England advanced. William shared his hopes for England's World Cup run during a surprise appearance on New Heights on July 3 with Jason Kelce and Travis Kelce. When asked what would make the tournament a success for England, the Prince of Wales replied simply, "I think winning it."

When Travis suggested William would make the trip across the Atlantic if England reached the final, the royal answered, "Definitely, if we're in the finals." Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Elsewhere in the conversation, William praised the U.S. for hosting the co-tournament with Mexico and Canada, calling it "a brilliant World Cup" and saying the country had been "fantastic" as host. He also said he had been looking forward to the competition "for ages," adding that he was "so pleased" the World Cup had returned. Read the original article on People