Throughout history, major sporting events have become an unofficial parallel calendar for Europe’s royal families, a place where monarchs, heirs, and consorts cross paths through a shared passion for sports and a long-standing tradition of public representation. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway in just a few hours, it will once again highlight the close connection between royals and sports.
Kings and queens from participating nations are expected to take part in the celebrations surrounding the tournament, reinforcing the role sports play on the international stage. Along with several highly anticipated royal reunions, the World Cup will also serve as a stage for informal diplomacy, where sports continue to bridge nations, cultures, and monarchies.
Which royals will attend the World Cup?
As the United States, Canada, and Mexico prepare to host some of the most anticipated matches of the tournament, royal jets will also be landing across North America. Among those expected to attend is King Felipe VI of Spain, who will travel to Mexico on a historic visit to take part in one of the most anticipated sporting events of the year.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off yesterday, Thursday, June 11, and a number of reigning monarchs are expected to be among the distinguished guests.
© Borja B. HojasKing Felipe VI attending at the invitation of Mexico’s President
King Felipe has confirmed that he will attend on June 26, traveling from Madrid to Guadalajara, Mexico. The Spanish monarch will join the millions of visitors FIFA expects during the tournament and will watch Spain face Uruguay in one of the competition’s marquee matches.
© DeFodi ImagesHis presence underscores his well-known passion for soccer and comes at the invitation of Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Another highly anticipated appearance will be that of King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands. The Dutch royals are expected to travel to Texas on June 20 to attend the match between the Netherlands and Sweden.
The matchup has attracted considerable attention, although Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf and Queen Silvia are not expected to attend. According to the Swedish Royal Court, they have declined an invitation from FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The invitation was reportedly extended as part of celebrations marking the Swedish monarch’s anniversary year but was ultimately turned down.
© DeFodi ImagesThat said, the possibility remains that another member of the Swedish royal family could attend, so royal watchers will have to wait and see whether Sweden will be represented after all.
Crown Prince Haakon to Attend With Prince Sverre Magnus, but Without Mette-Marit
Crown Prince Haakon of Norway and his son, Prince Sverre Magnus, have both confirmed their attendance. However, the worsening health of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is living with pulmonary fibrosis and awaiting a transplant, could potentially affect the heir apparent’s plans.
© Rune Hellestad – CorbisThe Opening Ceremony and First Match of the 2026 World Cup
Mexico City is already in full celebration mode as the 2026 FIFA World Cup arrives. Fans have begun filling the streets wearing Mexico national team jerseys, ready to support El Tri in the opening match of the tournament.
The game took place at Estadio Ciudad de México on June 11th at 1:00 p.m. local time. To mark the occasion, several public viewing locations have been set up across the city so fans won’t miss a single moment of either the opening ceremony or the match itself.
© picture allianceThe most talked-about gathering spot is Mexico City’s iconic Zócalo, where the FIFA Fan Festival will take place. Giant screens have been installed throughout the area, allowing supporters to experience every moment, from the opening whistle to the final kick of the ball during Mexico’s match against South Africa.
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