FAW silent over replacing late Queen as patron

Queen Elizabeth died in September 2022

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) is yet to make a decision on who, if anyone, should occupy the role of patron previously held by Queen Elizabeth II.

Following the late Queen's death in September 2022, the FA in England appointed the Prince of Wales as patron, stepping into the role previously held by his grandmother, in July 2024.

A petition in 2023, calling for "no more Royal patronage" of FAW, attracted 1,883 signatures, amid demands for a "respected citizen of Wales... to unite our nation".

BBC Wales understands FAW has discussed whether it needs a patron at all, royal or otherwise. A spokesperson on behalf of the association declined to comment.

The 2023 petition was launched by former Plaid Cymru police and crime commissioner for north Wales, Arfon Jones.

"What the FAW needs is a patron who is passionate about our nation and who will promote Welsh football at all levels, and is a well-known and respected citizen of Wales," the petition stated.

"The person chosen should seek to further unite our nation, and not be a divisive figure as royal patrons so often are."

The Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales, resumed their rugby rivalry at the Wales vs England Six Nations rugby match earlier this year

The Wales football squad are preparing for their final World Cup qualifying group games against Liechtenstein and North Macedonia later this month.

Prince William is the current patron of the Welsh Rugby Union, while his wife, Catherine, Princess of Wales, is patron of the English Rugby Football Union.