Prince William is reportedly facing a difficult family situation as Prince Harry prepares to return to the UK with Meghan Markle.
The Prince of Wales has not spoken to his younger brother in more than two years, and the Sussexes’ return could bring their long-running rift back into the spotlight.
Royal expert Jennie Bond told i Paper that Harry’s presence in Britain would place William in an uncomfortable position, particularly with their children still having little connection.
“One thing is for sure. This puts William in a very difficult position,” Bond said. “The rift between the brothers is deep, but with Harry thousands of miles away in California it was somehow less front and center.”
She continued: “However, when the two princes are living in the same country, with their children, first cousins, still strangers to one another, the rift is going to look like a chasm.”
Bond also suggested the situation could create complications for major royal gatherings, including the family’s traditional Christmas celebrations at Sandringham.
“What, for example, will happen at Christmas?” she asked. “The Royal Family always gather at Sandringham and make that ever-popular morning walk to church.”
“Will the King invites both his sons, or will he have to choose? Will William conveniently decide it’s time to spend Christmas with his in-laws and give Sandringham a miss?”
According to Bond, Harry’s decision has now left William to determine what happens next.
“Harry has firmly placed the ball in William’s court,” she concluded.
