Prince William takes on major royal duty at Pope Francis's funeral in Vatican

Prince William is set to represent the British monarchy for the funeral of Pope Francis.

The Prince of Wales, 42, will travel to Vatican City this weekend to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this month. 

William will attend the April 26 ceremony on behalf of his father, King Charles, Buckingham Palace confirmed.

The event is expected to draw a sea of world leaders, dignitaries, and religious figures as the world bids farewell to the beloved leader of the Catholic Church.

This royal duty continues a powerful legacy. In 2005, then-Prince Charles attended the funeral of Pope John Paul II, standing in for Queen Elizabeth II, a moment that famously delayed his wedding to Camilla Parker Bowles by a day.

Notably, no senior British royals attended the 2023 funeral of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, which was not a state funeral due to his prior retirement.

Prince William’s upcoming appearance reflects his expanding role as heir to the throne. 

Just months ago, he represented the UK at the reopening of Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral, rubbing shoulders with global figures like Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Following the Pope’s death on Easter Monday, the King issued an emotional tribute from Buckingham Palace: “Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased… knowing that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion.”

Charles praised Pope Francis’ compassion, unity, and environmental advocacy, saying: “His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world.”

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