Prince George’s 13th birthday has been marked with heartfelt tributes from across the Royal Family’s supporters, but an unexpected comment from his uncle, Prince Harry, has also attracted attention as the young royal prepares for one of the biggest milestones of his life.

Although Harry did not publicly send George a birthday message, remarks he made during a recent appearance on James Corden’s Fox Sports show have taken on new significance as George gets ready to begin life at Eton College this September.

Harry Reflects on His Own Eton Experience

Appearing alongside former England footballer Rio Ferdinand, Prince Harry spoke about his years at Eton after James Corden jokingly suggested the prestigious school was “too posh” for football.

Harry quickly corrected him, replying: “Did I play football? Why are you calling it soccer?”

He went on to explain that despite Eton’s elite reputation, students were encouraged to participate in a wide variety of sports.

“It was such a posh school that everything was an option,” Harry said.

According to Eton College, pupils can take part in football, hockey, rowing, cricket, fencing, swimming, squash, martial arts and water polo, among many other activities.

Good News for a Young Football Fan

Harry’s comments are particularly relevant because Prince George has become well known as a passionate football supporter.

The young royal is regularly seen attending Aston Villa matches alongside his father, Prince William, and has accompanied him to several high-profile fixtures in recent years.

With George expected to enrol at Eton this autumn, Harry’s remarks suggest he will have plenty of opportunities to continue playing the sport he enjoys while also exploring a range of other athletic activities available at the historic school.

A Milestone Birthday

George officially turned 13 on Wednesday, with Kensington Palace releasing a new portrait captured by photographer Matt Porteous after last month’s Trooping the Colour celebrations.

The photograph showed the future King looking noticeably more mature in a navy blazer and white shirt as he prepares to begin secondary school.

The Prince and Princess of Wales also shared a short video filmed during the family’s Easter break in Cornwall, showing George enjoying time on the beach with his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.

Harry Continues Public Media Appearances

Harry’s comments came during one of several recent media appearances, including interviews discussing football and England’s World Cup campaign.

While the Duke of Sussex has made only limited visits to Britain since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, his reflections on life at Eton have offered an unexpected glimpse into an experience Prince George is now about to begin himself.

Although there is no indication the comments were intended as a personal birthday message, many royal watchers have noted the timing, seeing Harry’s positive memories of Eton as an encouraging insight for his nephew as he prepares for the next chapter of his education.