Princess Anne has sent a message of support to all Team GB athletes taking part in this year’s Winter Olympics ahead of the opening ceremony on Friday.
This year’s Winter Olympics games take place in northern Italy, spread across Milan and Cortina.
In her message, the former Olympian said: “Congratulations on your selection to represent Team GB at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.
“I hope you will have a memorable experience that will bring you not only lasting memories but friendships and bonds that will endure throughout.
Princess Anne has offered a message of support to Team GB athletes at the Winter Olympics
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“To get this far is a remarkable achievement. It represents not only your talents on the field of play but also the countless hours of practice requiring dedication and determination that have gotten you to this point.
“Such commitment is itself worthy of recognition, and it has earned you the right to stand proudly among the finest athletes in the world.
“As your competitions begin, know that you will have the support of the nation. On behalf of all of us all, I wish you the very best of luck.”
Anne was the first member of the British royal family to compete in the Olympic Games, having represented Team GB in the three-day equestrian event at the 1976 Montreal Olympics.
She rode Goodwill, a horse owned by her mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Anne later transitioned to various leadership roles and became a member of the International Olympic Committee in 1988.
Anne also serves as a resident of the British Olympic Association.
Princess Anne represented Team GB at the 1976 Montreal Olympics
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The Princess Royal was also seen alongside Prince Albert of Monaco in Italy earlier this week when she attended the 145th session of the IOC.
The IOC sessions are used to hold critical decision meetings, which include votes on future host cities, and set guidelines that govern the Olympic Games.
Prince Albert additionally has deep links with the Winter Olympics, having been an IOC member since 1985.
He participated in the bobsleigh event at five consecutive Winter Olympics, from Calgary in 1988 to Salt Lake City in 2002.
Albert has also served as president of the Monegasque Olympic Committee since 1994 and holds multiple senior IOC roles, including deputy chairman of the Athletes’ Commission.
Princess Anne and Prince Albert of Monaco were seen in Italy earlier this week ahead of the Winter Olympics
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GETTYPrince Albert and Princess Charlene’s social media account posted on the visit: “This session opens a new chapter for the Olympic Movement, as the Milan Cortina 2026 Games approaches, the first Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games designed and organised in total compliance with the reforms of the 2020 Olympic Agenda, from application to delivery.
