Prince William will represent the British royal family at the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City later this week, Buckingham Palace has confirmed. His attendance comes as King Charles III is prohibited from going, in accordance with long-standing royal funeral protocol.
According to royal expert Katie Nicholl via Vanity Fair, British royal tradition dictates that the reigning sovereign does not attend funerals, including those of global religious leaders such as the pope. This ceremonial precedent explains why Prince William will attend on behalf of his father, King Charles—mirroring the precedent set in 2005, when then-Prince Charles attended Pope John Paul II’s funeral on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II.
Why King Charles Won’t Attend the Pope’s Funeral
Buckingham Palace has reiterated that royal protocol bars the monarch from attending funerals, regardless of international significance. However, King Charles did meet with Pope Francis shortly before his passing and shared a heartfelt statement after his death.
“My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis,” the King said in an official statement. “His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church, and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith.”
The King praised Pope Francis’ environmental advocacy, saying:
“His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world.”
Prince William’s Role at the Vatican
Prince William’s attendance will mark a significant moment in his evolving role as heir to the British throne, stepping into high-profile diplomatic and ceremonial duties. The visit is expected to be brief but symbolically important, reflecting the UK’s respect for the Vatican and global religious unity.
As the royal family mourns alongside the world, the presence of the Prince of Wales at Pope Francis’ funeral continues the tradition of representational diplomacy in times of major international loss.
