Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, has once again demonstrated her unwavering commitment to her royal duties by taking on a new and exciting patronage. This move comes just weeks after she firmly stated that retirement is not on her agenda, reaffirming her dedication to serving the public and supporting causes close to her heart—particularly in the realm of sports.
At 74 years old and approaching her 75th birthday in August, Princess Anne continues to be a powerhouse within the royal family. Her latest role as patron of the Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation (MIPF) highlights her enduring passion for rugby and her dedication to supporting athletes who face challenges both on and off the field.
Princess Anne’s connection to rugby runs deep. She has been a devoted supporter of the sport since becoming the patron of the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) in 1986. Over the decades, she has become a familiar face at rugby matches, often seen cheering from the stands during the Six Nations tournament. Her presence at these events is more than ceremonial—it’s a testament to her genuine love for the game and its community.
Her new role with the MIPF further cements her legacy in the sport. The foundation, established in 1973 to coincide with the centenary of Scottish rugby, provides crucial support to players injured while participating in grassroots rugby across Scotland. Whether it’s financial assistance for medical bills or help transitioning to new career paths, the MIPF ensures that injured athletes receive the care and support they need to move forward.
Ian Rankin, chair of the MIPF, expressed his enthusiasm about Princess Anne’s new role, stating, “The Princess Royal has been a steadfast supporter of the Scottish rugby team through various ups and downs since the 1980s. Her passion for the sport and her unwavering commitment to the game at every level is well-documented. We are truly honored to have her join us as our patron.”
Princess Anne’s connection to rugby is deeply personal. During a recent appearance on her son-in-law Mike Tindall’s podcast, The Good, The Bad and The Rugby, she shared the story of how she first became involved with the SRU. “They asked me to open the East Stand at Murrayfield when it was built, and I had only two weeks’ notice because someone had let them down,” she recalled. “Coincidentally, my horse was lame at the time, so I wasn’t competing that weekend. I accepted the invitation, and about a month later, they asked if I would like to become the patron.”
For Princess Anne, rugby is more than just a sport—it’s a platform for promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and community. “Rugby offers so much in terms of exercise and team dynamics,” she explained. “It showcases a variety of talents within one team, and there’s a unique responsibility to look out for each other. Players are not all the same—everyone brings different skills to the table, which creates a rich and diverse team environment.”
Her passion for rugby was on full display during Scotland’s recent Six Nations match against England. Despite a nail-biting 15-6 defeat at Twickenham Stadium, Princess Anne’s presence in the stands was a reminder of her unwavering support for the team and the sport.
In January, during an official visit to Cape Town, Princess Anne was asked about the possibility of retirement. Her response was clear and resolute: “It’s not on the horizon for me. I don’t see that as an option.” This statement underscores her determination to continue fulfilling her royal responsibilities and to remain actively engaged in the causes she cares about.
Her new patronage with the MIPF is a perfect example of this commitment. By supporting injured players, Princess Anne is not only helping individuals overcome challenges but also ensuring the continued growth and success of grassroots rugby in Scotland.
Princess Anne’s journey in rugby—marked by dedication, passion, and a genuine love for the sport—serves as a testament to the positive impact a royal figure can have on community initiatives. Her work with the SRU and now the MIPF has inspired countless individuals and will undoubtedly continue to do so for generations to come.
As she approaches her 75th birthday, Princess Anne shows no signs of slowing down. Her tireless work ethic, combined with her deep sense of duty, makes her one of the most respected and beloved members of the royal family. Whether she’s cheering from the stands or advocating for injured players, Princess Anne’s legacy is one of service, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Princess Anne’s new patronage with the Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation is a reminder of her enduring dedication to rugby and her passion for supporting those in need. As she continues to defy expectations and take on new challenges, she remains a shining example of what it means to serve with grace, determination, and a genuine love for the causes she champions.
