At a Glance
- Kate Middleton joked she avoids tackles from 12-year-old Prince George during family rugby games
- All three Wales children play rugby at home, with Louis enrolled in “Rugbytots” sessions
- The Princess praised co-ed sports while hosting England’s Women’s Rugby team at Windsor Castle
- Why it matters: Royal parenting style emphasizes physical activity and gender-neutral sports choices
The Princess of Wales revealed she’s stepping back from rugby scrums with her eldest son, telling athletes that Prince George’s growing strength makes family games a contact sport she now prefers to watch from the sidelines.
Kate’s Rugby Revelation
During a January 15, 2026 reception at Windsor Castle, Kate hosted England’s Women’s Rugby team to celebrate their September 2025 World Cup victory. The event became a platform for the royal mother to share intimate details about her children’s athletic pursuits.
“It’s such a great game, actually, they shouldn’t necessarily need to pigeonhole boys and girls into particular sports too early,” Kate told the athletes, according to Rebecca English of the Daily Mail.
The Princess then delivered her candid assessment of playing rugby with George: “Obviously, as they get physically stronger… George, now, if I play at home, I do not want to get tackled by George!”
Growing Pains and Growing Gains
The rugby revelation came just weeks after a Christmas Day exchange highlighted George’s rapid growth. When royal superfan John Loughrey told Kate that George would “be 6’4″ one day,” the Princess laughed and replied, “I know, I swear, he’s catching up with everybody, isn’t he?”
At 12 years old, George appears to be closing the height gap with his parents. Prince William stands at 6’3″ while Princess Kate measures 5’9″.
Full House of Rugby Fans
The Wales children have embraced rugby across age groups, creating a household united by the sport:
- Prince George, 12: Plays touch rugby at school where coaches work on rules and confidence-building
- Princess Charlotte, 10: Plays rugby at home with family members, not yet at school
- Prince Louis, 7: Participates in weekly “Rugbytots” sessions, a global program for ages 2-7
“Rugby is so accessible; Louis is playing touch rugby, and it’s such a great game,” Kate explained to the England team members.
Weather Woes and Field Conditions
The Princess shared practical challenges facing young players, noting seasonal difficulties: “At this time of year, the pitch is either totally swamped, or they’re hard.”
These observations came during conversations with England’s Women’s Rugby team captain Zoe Stratford, vice captains Marlie Packer and Megan Jones, and head coach John Mitchell.
Fashion Tribute
Kate’s choice of attire for the January reception appeared to honor her guests. She wore a sleek red Alexander McQueen suit, seemingly nodding to the team’s “Red Roses” nickname.
As patron of England’s women’s rugby team, Kate attended matches during their World Cup campaign in September 2025, demonstrating ongoing support for the sport.
Early Athletic Assessment
The Princess has previously commented on George’s natural advantages for rugby. In 2023, she noted: “They are trying to teach him the rules. They move them around for their confidence. Because he is tall, he has the physique.”
This assessment aligns with her current decision to avoid physical competition with her growing son, acknowledging both his size advantage and developing strength.
Key Takeaways
- Royal parenting emphasizes co-ed sports participation from early ages
- Physical development has changed family dynamics as George approaches teenage years
- Kate maintains active involvement as team patron while managing motherhood duties
- The Wales household prioritizes accessibility and enjoyment in children’s athletic activities
