Prince George and his father, Prince William, took part in a heartwarming pre-Christmas football match, marking the young prince’s first time playing in the annual festive game. The event, which saw father and son team up, was watched by the Princess of Wales and their younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, who cheered them on from the sidelines.

The match took place on the Sandringham estate, pitting the workers of the estate against villagers in a friendly kick-about. Prince William and George joined the game on the same team, donning blue shirts.

William sported the number 18 on his jersey, while George’s enthusiasm on the pitch was evident, with onlookers praising his energetic performance.

In previous years, Prince Harry had been a participant in this holiday tradition, but it’s believed that 2016 was the last time the brothers played together. This year, the role of Harry was humorously filled by young George, marking a new chapter in the family’s festive football tradition.

According to the Daily Mail, an insider described the scene as a moment of “healthy father-and-son bonding time,” with other children joining in the fun and contributing to the light-hearted atmosphere of the game.

The match had a festive spirit, and many noted how much fun everyone seemed to be having. Prince William, known for his competitive spirit, almost scored a goal during the game, while his son George’s enthusiasm was lauded by those watching.

“It was nice that they have returned to take part in the traditional game as they haven’t done so for years,” the source said. “But it was interesting to see that Harry has now been substituted for Prince George.”

Prince William, once President of the Football Association (FA) and now its Patron, has always been open about his love for the sport and the influence he hopes to have on his children’s football fandom.

On the That Peter Crouch Podcast in 2020, he shared that while he supports his son’s choice of football team, he had “concerns” when George was younger about him leaning towards Chelsea, rather than following in his father’s Aston Villa footsteps.

“I’m trying not to persuade him to be a Villa fan, I’m letting him choose his own way. It’s about finding what fits for him,” William explained.