SUPPORT OUR JOURNALISM: Please consider donating to keep our website running and free for all - thank you!

Palaces & Buildings

Royal Residences and Rugby: International rugby teams welcomed to Hampton Court Palace

Ahead of the first match of the 2015 Rugby World Cup on Friday, two of England’s sporting rivals have been welcomed to the United Kingdom in true royal fashion. The teams from Italy and Fiji arrived at Hampton Court Palace to heartfelt welcoming ceremonies organised by England Rugby 2015, marking the arrival of the squads and the beginning of their respective World Cup campaigns.

The Fiji team were warmly received at the former home of King Henry VIII last Thursday where they were greeted by a choir from Thustable School in Essex, who performed ‘World in Union’ in front of a vast audience of notable figures from World Rugby, England Rugby 2015 and the RFU. Members of player’s families were also present as well as figures from the local community.

The Fijian team were each presented with a tournament cap as well as a Rugby World Cup 2015 participation medal. The caps and medals were presented by four caps and medal bearers who were selected from local clubs and education institutions. The squad also listened as rugby legend, Bill Beaumont, and Brett Gosper, World Rugby chief executive, gave welcoming speeches.

The 2015 Rugby World Cup begins Friday 18th September and Fiji will be taking part in the opening match against host nation England. England was chosen to host the tournament in 2009, and there will be 20 teams taking part in matches across the country including at Twickenham, Wembley Stadium, Millennium Stadium and Villa Park.

Recently, news regarding the Royal Family’s involvement in the Rugby World Cup was revealed. Prince Harry and The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will attend the opening match on Friday 18th September while it is expected they will attend more matches throughout the course of the tournament. Prince Philip, Princess Eugenie and The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester will also be in attendance at various matches.

On Monday, the Italian squad were also welcomed to Hampton Court Palace where they were treated to a tour of the grounds and presented with their tournament caps from former Wales international, David Pickering.

Michael Campagnaro, the 22-year-old centre for Italy, gave his thoughts on the Tudor palace, “Its a typical English place, no? I like it a lot. It’s my first time here and yes, I would like to live in the palace.”

A choir from The Queen’s Church of England Primary School welcomed the Italian squad with their rendition of ‘World in Union’. David Pickering spoke to the gathered crowds, “This is the biggest, and, I am sure, the best Rugby World Cup there has ever been. England 2015 will be a very special journey and will deliver unforgettable experiences on and off the field.”

Italy’s first match is on Saturday 19th September when they take on France.

The Rugby World Cup 2015 will be broadcast on ITV from its opening ceremony on 18th September to the final match on 31st October.

Royal Central will keep you updated with any royal involvement in the sporting extravaganza.

Photo Credit: Edwin Lee