Prince William and Prince Harry used to share a forgotten Christmas Eve traditionImage: AFP via Getty Images

Prince William and Prince Harry’s forgotten Christmas Eve tradition

Like all families, the royals have adopted unique yet entertaining Christmas traditions.

The once-close brothers Prince William and Prince Harry appear to have been no different; they used to participate in a fiercely competitive but sadly discontinued tradition every Christmas Eve.

The feuding pair used to participate in a charity football game with friends and estate staff at Sandringham to start their holiday season there with the other royals.

The game was played on a field next to the 12-century residence of Tory peer Lord Greville Howard, and William and Harry would typically be on opposing teams.

 

Harry taking part in the football match in 2015
Image: FameFlynet.uk.com

 

Over the years, they have played in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and strong winds. One game, William appeared on the field wearing socks from his favorite team, Aston Villa, and Harry was the victim of a tackle that brought him to his knees.

The football tradition, however, was put to an end in 2016 when neither brother showed up for the game despite being invited to participate.

William is thought to have missed out because he spent Christmas with Kate’s family in Berkshire that year, along with Prince George and Princess Charlotte.

Lord Howard at the time stated: “They weren’t anticipated. They have enjoyed playing in previous years, but one doesn’t like to inquire as to why.”

Their cousin Zara Tindall had a devastating miscarriage just hours before the game was scheduled to start, it was revealed.

 

William and Harry usually played on opposing teams
Image: Splash

 

Since then, they haven’t resumed playing Christmas Eve football, and given their rift, it doesn’t appear that they will.

As King Charles hosts the first holiday season of his reign, William will spend Christmas at Sandringham with Kate, George, Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

Harry is rumored to be spending Christmas at his California home with wife Meghan Markle and their kids Archie and Lilibet.

As the royals prepare for their first Christmas after the Queen’s passing, it is likely to be a difficult time for them.

The royal family typically gathers for a family lunch with turkey and all the fixings after visiting St. Mary Magdalene Church in the morning to greet well-wishers.

 

King Charles, William and Kate last spent Christmas with Harry and Meghan in 2019
Image: Getty Images

 

In his historic, first-ever Christmas broadcast as king, Charles has already recorded his thoughts on his mother’s passing and her legacy.

On December 25, after lunch, typically at 3 p.m., members of the royal family sit down to watch the televised address.

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