Prince of Wales showcases volleyball skills on Brazil visit

Published: 04 November 2025. The English Chronicle Desk. The English Chronicle Online.

The Prince of Wales demonstrated his athletic skills and charm on the sands of Copacabana Beach during his first-ever official visit to Brazil, marking the beginning of a five-day tour focused on environmental advocacy, youth engagement, and cultural diplomacy. The future king, known for his long-standing interest in sport and environmental issues, took part in a lively beach volleyball match alongside Brazilian Olympian Carolina Solberg and local players, much to the delight of the crowd.

After a full day of sightseeing and official engagements, Prince William removed his shoes and socks to join a game on the iconic beach, leaping energetically into the sand to save balls and score points. His youthful agility, once honed through water polo in his school days, was on full display, earning enthusiastic cheers from onlookers who shouted his name as he made impressive plays. “Hi guys, be nice,” the Prince quipped to his opponents before diving into the match, demonstrating both skill and a sense of humor.

The volleyball session was part of a broader series of engagements that included the presentation of the Earthshot Prize, a high-level session at COP30, and meetings with local emergency responders and youth participants in Rio de Janeiro. William’s visit represents the British monarchy’s ongoing commitment to environmental issues, youth leadership, and international collaboration, and is being closely watched as he balances ceremonial duties with advocacy initiatives.

Earlier in the day, the Prince took part in a series of high-profile visits. At Maracanã Stadium, he scored a penalty while participating in a football session designed to engage young leaders and participants from local community programs. He then travelled up Sugarloaf Mountain by cable car, enjoying panoramic views of Rio de Janeiro and receiving a warm welcome from local musicians and tourists who spontaneously cheered the royal visitor. Upon reaching the summit, he was presented with the keys to the city by Mayor Eduardo Paes, in a rare ceremonial honour that underscores the significance of his visit.

Prince William also made time to interact with emergency responders on Copacabana Beach. During a simulated rescue exercise, he blew a whistle from a lifeguard tower to signal an emergency, observing lifeguards in action as they aided swimmers in distress. He explored rescue equipment including jet skis, oxygen tanks, buoys, and boats, demonstrating a genuine curiosity about the skills and responsibilities required to protect the public in a coastal environment. “How fast does it go?” he asked about the jet ski, illustrating his hands-on approach and engagement with local expertise.

The day’s final highlight was the volleyball match on the sand. Prince William joined players from Carolina Solberg’s beach volleyball school, a programme dedicated to transforming the lives of children from disadvantaged communities through sport. Solberg, a 38-year-old Olympian, praised the Prince’s athleticism and energy, noting that his height and agility gave him a distinct advantage on the court. “He’s tall. He can hit. I think he could be really good if he practised more. It was amazing to play with him,” she said. The Prince, for his part, took the match seriously but maintained a playful rapport with both teammates and opponents.

Following the volleyball game, the Prince posed for photographs, greeted tourists and locals, and accepted a red cap as a token of appreciation. His interactions reflected a balance of formality and informality, demonstrating the royal protocol of accessibility while engaging with the public in a meaningful and personable way.

A central focus of the Prince’s Brazil visit is the Earthshot Prize, which celebrates innovative solutions to environmental challenges and supports young leaders globally. During a session at Maracanã Stadium, Prince William spoke directly to Generation Earthshot participants, a group of 18 to 30-year-old future leaders selected from Brazil, Asia, and Africa. He emphasized the importance of empowering the younger generation rather than lecturing them, encouraging them to share ideas and propose solutions to pressing ecological issues.

The Prince’s message resonated with participants, many of whom presented projects addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental sustainability. He praised their dedication and courage, remarking that their work represents a vital contribution to global efforts in protecting the planet. He also encouraged them to achieve wider recognition for their initiatives, joking that their efforts should become “household names” and acknowledging the potential distractions posed by his presence.

During the visit, William also emphasized the need to address “environmental anxiety” among young people, recognizing that many feel burdened by global challenges. He reassured them that support and mentorship are central to the Earthshot Prize’s mission, and that their contributions can influence both policy and industry to adopt greener practices.

In addition to sports and environmental sessions, the Prince observed and engaged with emergency preparedness programmes. He met young participants in Project Botinho, an annual initiative that promotes summer educational and sports activities for children. William acknowledged the work of the local fire brigade and social services in delivering this programme, commending the dedication of volunteers who support young people in challenging urban environments.

The Prince’s visit has drawn attention not only for his public engagements but also for the Royal Family context surrounding the trip. Following recent personal and institutional challenges within the monarchy, including the confirmation of the Duke of York’s departure from Royal Lodge, William’s activities in Brazil underscore a focus on public service, global diplomacy, and youth engagement. His ability to connect with communities abroad, while representing the Crown and British government at COP30 and other high-profile events, highlights the evolving role of the monarchy in contemporary society.

Throughout the day, Prince William’s interactions balanced ceremonial duties, advocacy work, and informal public engagement. From scoring a penalty at Maracanã Stadium to blowing a whistle during a simulated sea rescue, and finally participating in a spirited volleyball match, his actions demonstrated both personal skill and a commitment to meaningful engagement. Observers noted his approachable style, athletic ability, and genuine interest in the programmes he visited.

The Prince’s participation in sport and environmental programmes aligns with his long-standing interests and charitable work, particularly initiatives designed to encourage youth participation, environmental stewardship, and international collaboration. Through the Earthshot Prize and local engagement, William continues to emphasize the importance of practical solutions, leadership development, and empowerment of the next generation.

As the sun set over Copacabana Beach, the Prince reflected the warmth of the local welcome, participating fully in activities while highlighting the broader purpose of his visit: to connect with young leaders, celebrate environmental innovation, and inspire positive action on global challenges. His visit to Brazil is expected to continue with high-level engagements, including presentations at the Earthshot Prize awards ceremony and participation in COP30 climate discussions, reaffirming his role as an advocate for sustainable development and youth empowerment.

Brief description (max 150 characters): Prince William dazzles in Brazil with volleyball skills, youth engagement, and environmental advocacy on first official visit.