When the Olympics roll around, it’s not just elite athletes who capture the world’s attention. Sometimes, the presence of royal family members can add a touch of majesty to the games. These royals don’t just watch from the sidelines; some even join in and leave their own mark on the Olympic legacy.
Over the years, Britain has played host to the Summer Olympics on three occasions, with each event kicked off by the sitting monarch of the time. For instance, King Edward VII inaugurated the games in 1908, his son King George VI followed suit in 1948, and Queen Elizabeth II had the honor in 2012.
Not content to remain spectators, royals like Zara Tindall, the Queen’s own granddaughter, have shown their sporting mettle. Tindall took home a silver in the 2012 London Olympics as part of the team eventing equestrian competition.
A Royal Olympic Debut
Princess Anne broke new ground at the 1976 Montreal Games as the first British royal to ever compete in the Olympics. With grace and strength, she represented her country in the challenging three-day eventing discipline, which tests a rider’s skill in dressage, cross-country, and show jumping. Even a fall and a subsequent concussion during the cross-country event couldn’t deter her; she got back on her horse and finished the race in true royal fashion.
When the Queen Met Bond… James Bond
The London 2012 Olympics gave us an opening ceremony for the ages, with a sprinkle of royal flair. The whole family, including now-King Charles and Queen Consort Camilla, were in the audience alongside younger family members. But it was Queen Elizabeth II who took center stage with her unforgettable entrance. Teaming up with Daniel Craig’s James Bond in a pre-taped piece, she seemingly flew into the Olympic stadium by parachute—a stunt that was kept a secret even from her family until the big reveal.
Celebrating in Style: Prince William’s Jubilant Cheer
The royals were enthusiastic supporters at the Olympic events, especially during the 2012 Games in London. Prince William and Princess Kate were spotted getting fully involved in the moment, visibly rejoicing as Team GB’s cyclists scored a gold medal and set a new world record in their final event. Their infectious excitement was one for the history books, with the Duke of Cambridge even lifting his wife in celebration.
On the Podium: Zara Tindall Claims Olympic Silver
Zara Tindall didn’t just walk in her mother’s footsteps by competing in the Olympics; she went one step further, earning a place on the podium. Her silver medal in the equestrian team eventing was a historic achievement, made even more special as her mother, Princess Anne, presented the medals in her role with the British Olympic Association.
Prince Harry’s Thrill at the Track
Always one for passion and gusto, Prince Harry showed his sportsman’s heart during the London Olympics. Known for initiating the Invictus Games, Harry was all-in, watching with bated breath alongside his cousin, Peter Phillips. Together, they witnessed the nail-biting excitement of the track cycling competitions.
