The All-Party Parliamentary Rugby League Group has welcomed the news that His Royal Highness Prince Harry is now the new patron of the Rugby Football League.
The appointment came when Her Majesty The Queen announced she would be standing down from the role.
During her time as patron, The Queen attended a variety of Rugby League events, including presenting the Challenge Cup at Wembley Stadium, and the opening of BARLA Headquarters.
However, it has been some time since Her Majesty and The Royal Family have been involved in the sport, and the Group hopes that Prince Harry’s appointment will see the renewal of royal involvement with Rugby League.
“The Group is delighted at the appointment of His Royal Highness as the new patron of the Rugby Football League,” said Group Chairman and Member of Parliament for Leeds North West MP, Greg Mulholland.
“Prince Harry is a huge fan of sport, and of rugby in particular, and I hope that that he will rekindle the Royal Family’s involvement in Rugby League.”
“Rugby league is a fantastic sport and one that is embedded in local communities, where it is of huge importance to people, and it is also a sport played in towns and cities across the country. I hope that the Rugby League authorities will be able to work closely with Prince Harry to encourage more young people to play the game, get active and stay healthy.
“I also look forward to once again seeing the Challenge Cup presented at Wembley Stadium by a member of The Royal Family.”
