There is a rule within the Royal Family that means King Charles cannot attend Pope Francis’s funeral today (26 April).

The Vatican has invited heads of state and government from around the world to the service, which is taking place in Vatican City.

The UK’s representatives at the funeral are Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, his wife Victoria, and Prince William.

Although King Charles was the last head of state to meet with the late pope, having had an audience with him on 9 April, he is not attending the funeral. Instead, his eldest son, Prince William, is there on his behalf.

This is due to a traditional rule that King Charles must follow, which prohibits him from attending funerals.

Following royal tradition, “the Sovereign does not attend funerals,” which means King Charles will not be present at Pope Francis’s funeral.

When Pope John Paul II passed away in 2005, Queen Elizabeth did not attend his funeral either. Instead, Charles went to represent her.

Interestingly, the funeral back then fell on the same day Charles was supposed to marry Queen Camilla. Their wedding was postponed by one day so Charles could travel to Vatican City and attend the funeral on his mother’s behalf.

After the death of Pope Francis, King Charles shared a statement saying:
“My wife and I were most deeply saddened to learn of the death of Pope Francis.

“Our heavy hearts have been somewhat eased, however, to know that His Holiness was able to share an Easter Greeting with the Church and the world he served with such devotion throughout his life and ministry.”

“His Holiness will be remembered for his compassion, his concern for the unity of the Church and for his tireless commitment to the common causes of all people of faith, and to those of goodwill who work for the benefit of others.

“His belief that care for Creation is an existential expression of faith in God resounded with so many across the world. Through his work and care for both people and planet, he profoundly touched the lives of so many.

“The Queen and I remember with particular affection our meetings with His Holiness over the years and we were greatly moved to have been able to visit him earlier in the month.

“We send our most heartfelt condolences and profound sympathy to the Church he served with such resolve and to the countless people around the world who, inspired by his life, will be mourning the devastating loss of this faithful follower of Jesus Christ.”