Buckingham Palace has confirmed that His Majesty King Charles III will not attend the funeral of Pope Francis, scheduled for 26 April at St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican. The Prince of Wales, Prince William, will represent the Royal Family at this globally significant religious and diplomatic event. The decision reflects longstanding royal tradition, the King’s religious role, and health considerations.
Why is King Charles III Not Attending?
A Buckingham Palace spokesperson stated that the King’s absence adheres to the established convention that British monarchs do not personally attend foreign leaders’ funerals, particularly those involving non-Anglican religious ceremonies. As Supreme Governor of the Church of England and Defender of the Faith, King Charles III’s role requires neutrality in religious and diplomatic matters. The historical divergence between the Church of England and the Roman Catholic Church, dating back to Henry VIII’s break in the 16th century, makes the monarch’s attendance at a papal funeral potentially sensitive.
Additionally, King Charles III has been undergoing cancer treatment since February 2024 and was briefly hospitalised recently due to treatment side effects. While he has continued public engagements, including a private audience with Pope Francis on 9 April during a visit to Italy, long-distance travel and high-intensity diplomatic events may pose challenges to his health. The Palace underscored that the King’s medical care is a key consideration.
Prince William’s Role
As heir to the throne, Prince William will represent the Royal Family alongside world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron. This arrangement upholds precedent—Prince Charles (then Prince of Wales) represented Queen Elizabeth II at Pope John Paul II’s funeral in 2005—and highlights Prince William’s growing stature as a future monarch. His recent representation of the Royal Family at the Notre-Dame reopening in Paris in December 2024 demonstrated his capability on the global stage.
King Charles III’s Tribute
Though unable to attend, King Charles III expressed profound condolences in a public statement, saying: “My wife and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Pope Francis. His compassion, dedication to the unity of the Church, and selfless service to humanity’s shared causes are truly admirable.” During their 9 April visit to Italy, the King and Queen Camilla held a 20-minute private audience with the Pope, coinciding with their 20th wedding anniversary, reflecting warm bilateral ties.
Funeral Details
Pope Francis passed away on 21 April 2025, aged 88. His funeral will follow his wishes for simplicity, using a plain wooden coffin and forgoing elaborate rituals. He will be laid to rest at the Basilica of St Mary Major in Rome, rather than the Vatican grottoes. The ceremony is expected to draw dozens of world leaders and tens of thousands of mourners honouring the humble and reformist pontiff.
Conclusion
King Charles III’s absence from Pope Francis’ funeral stems from royal protocol, his religious role, and health considerations, balancing tradition with modern diplomacy. Prince William’s attendance underscores the Royal Family’s respect for the Vatican and the global Catholic community. The Palace has called for public understanding and will continue to honour Pope Francis through official tributes.
