PRINCE William has been heavily criticised for snubbing Canada’s historic run to the Copa America semi-finals while celebrating England’s success at the Euros.
Canada triumphed over Venezuela in a penalty shootout to reach the semi-finals of the competition for the first time before losing to Argentina.
It was Canada’s deepest run at a major tournament outside the CONCACAF Gold Cup – a less competitive North American tournament – which shook the nation who are ranked 48th in the world.
But Canadian political commentator Fred DeLorey has slated the nation’s future King for not congratulating the team on their incredible success while publicly revelling in England’s run to the final of Euro 2024.
Though William was not at England’s semi-final win over the Netherlands on Wednesday, he was pictured cheering the team on as they won their penalty shootout over Switzerland in the previous round and he attended the 1-1 draw against Denmark in the group stage.
In a blog post, DeLorey tore into the heir to the throne’s apparent ignorance which he said left him considering whether it was time for Canada to “step up and fully mature” and cut ties with the monarchy.
DeLorey wrote: “It was great to see his [Prince William’s] enthusiastic response to England beating a Swiss team and making it to the next round. I harbour no animosity towards the English.
“But witnessing the heir to the Canadian throne exulting solely over England's win while completely ignoring Canada's historic achievement stung.
“As a monarchist, I appreciate the role of the monarchy in our democracy. However, it’s crucial that our monarch reflects the evolving identity and achievements of all Canadians. The monarch reigns over us because we allow it to, not simply because it can.
“It was disheartening. Canada is a mature country that has come into its own.
“Yet, despite our accomplishments, we are often seen as either the loveless child of the English monarch or the kid brother of the USA. This perception undermines our sovereignty and the respect we deserve on the world stage.
“Maybe it is finally time for Canada to step up and fully mature. To assert our place in the world with confidence and pride, free from the shadow of external monarchs and influences.”
In the ice hockey-loving nation, Canada’s football team – or soccer team as they would say - going on to face the world champions with a chance at reaching the Copa America final was a pivotal cultural and sporting moment for the country.
It is the third most prestigious football tournament in the world.
DeLorey reflected on searching social media after Canada reached the semi-finals for any sign of support from the Prince, but he found nothing expect him jumping up and down for Gareth Southgate’s side.
The former national campaign manager for the Conservative Party of Canada spoke of how his sons both play football and he had to flit back and forth between the respective playoffs they were involved in the day after Canada’s victory in the quarters.
He added his loyalty to both his children’s teams made him consider whether William “can genuinely claim the same level of dedication and love for all his subjects”.
“Prince William's clear favoritism towards England over Canada is reminiscent of a parent favoring one child over another,” DeLorey added.
“He cheered for England and completely ignored Canada, a country that deserves more respect from our future King.
“Just as I ensured both of my kids felt equally supported and celebrated, our monarch failed to do the same.
“Prince William's oversight felt like a snub to our nation's pride and accomplishments. If the monarchy is to remain relevant in Canada, it must celebrate our victories and share in our moments of glory.”
Kensington Palace has been approached for comment.
