King Charles tells England team to hold heads high after Euro final defeat

“Although victory may have eluded you this evening, nevertheless my wife and I join all my family in urging you and your support team to hold your heads high,” King Charles wrote in a letter published on X after England’s defeat to Spain on July 14.

“All those who have participated in sporting activities at any level will know how utterly despairing such a result can feel when the prize was so near – and will join me in sending heartfelt sympathy, even as we congratulate Spain.

“But please know that your success in reaching the European Championship final is a really great achievement in itself, and one that brings with it the pride of a nation which will continue to roar for the Three Lions today – and in the many triumphs which I have no doubt lie ahead.”

Prince William, who is also President of the England Football Association (FA), came to Berlin to watch the match live with Prince George. He also came to the pitch to give medals and send words of encouragement to the team.

“This time it just wasn’t meant to be. We’re all still so proud of you. Onwards. W,” Prince William wrote on social media.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, London Mayor Sadiq Khan, and many influential figures also sent words of encouragement to the team.

In Berlin, England played less impressively than their opponent and conceded in the 47th minute, after a finish by Nico Williams. In the 73rd minute, Cole Palmer scored from outside the box to equalize for England, but Mikel Oyarzabal’s close-range finish in the 85th minute ended England’s title dream. Four years ago, England also lost to Italy in the penalty shootout of the Euro 2020 final.

When the final whistle blew, England players couldn’t hide their disappointment. They were completely exhausted after seven games. England will have to wait until the 2026 World Cup, an event marking 60 years since their first and only major trophy so far, the 1966 World Cup.