PRINCE William will not travel to watch England play in the World Cup next month amid a growing row over Qatar’s human rights record.
The FA President, 40, had been expected to attend games in the Middle East in November.
Sources close to the future king blamed a busy diary during the World Cup, with England’s first game on November 21 against Iran.
The hosts have been dogged by protests over poor conditions for stadium workers and criminalisation of same-sex relationships.
Friends say a trip to the final if Gareth Southgate’s team get there on December 18 is unlikely and would likely only be part of a government delegation.
Last night LGBT rights activists hailed his decision to stay away from Qatar.
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In 2016, William became the first royal to appear on the cover of gay magazine Attitude, where he praised the bravery of gay, lesbian and transgender youngsters who have suffered bullying. He told the mag: “No one should be bullied for their sexuality.”
Same-sex relationships are illegal in Qatar due to its strict Islamic rulers.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly was accused of being “shockingly tone-deaf” this week after warning gay fans to be “respectful” in the Middle Eastern country.
England skipper Harry Kane is among several captains planning to wear a rainbow “OneLove” armband during the tournament.
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Amnesty International has also urged Fifa to pay compensation of at least £350million to stadium workers for “human rights abuses”.
William and wife Kate’s diaries are laid out six months in advance but no space was found for Qatar.
The couple are in Boston, US, for William’s televised £50million environmental Earthshot Prize on December 2.
They also have a string of unannounced engagements during the tournament.
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Footie-mad William visited England’s training HQ in Staffs this month, and chatted with Southgate.
A spokesman declined to comment.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
