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Princess of Wales Hosts Red Roses at Windsor in First Solo Engagement of 2026

The reception celebrated England’s 2025 World Cup win and signaled a measured return to public duties through her RFU patronage after cancer treatment.

Overview

  • Players presented the Rugby World Cup trophy and posed for an official photograph with the Princess at Windsor Castle.
  • England defeated Canada 33-13 in the September final at a sold‑out Twickenham, setting a record attendance of about 81,885 for a women’s match.
  • Recent New Year Honours were noted, including OBEs for captain Zoe Stratford, Marlie Packer and head coach John Mitchell, and MBEs for Megan Jones, Sadia Kabeya and Ellie Kildunne.
  • A planned private tour of the castle was cancelled after the team’s coach broke down en route, leading to a late arrival.
  • Wearing a recycled red Alexander McQueen suit in a nod to the Red Roses, the Princess praised the team’s impact on girls’ sport and shared that her children play rugby at home.