The year 2026 marks a significant chapter for Prince George of Wales. At 12 years old, and turning 13 in July, the eldest son of Prince William and Princess Catherine is not just any teenager preparing for secondary school. He is a future King in the making, second in line to the British throne. His journey into royal life is unfolding with deliberate grace, offering glimpses of the monarch he is destined to become. Here are seven defining instances where Prince George demonstrated his readiness for the crown.
Stepping Into The Spotlight: Early Royal Duties
Prince George's formal introduction to royal ceremonial life came early. In 2023, at just nine years old, he served as a Page of Honour at the coronation of his grandfather, King Charles III. This role made him the youngest future King to ever have a formal part in a coronation. His composure and grace during the high-profile event were noted as signs of a seamless transition for the monarchy.
His solo debut followed in 2025, when he undertook his first official engagement without his parents. Prince George hosted a tea for World War II veterans at Buckingham Palace. Reports highlighted his thoughtful engagement and genuine interest in their stories. A source told HELLO! magazine, "George was the star of the room. He was engrossed in conversation with many of the veterans, who were delighted to speak to him as well." This event showcased a natural gravitas essential for future diplomatic duties.
Public Appearances & Growing Confidence
The young royal has also been gradually acclimatized to public life through major events. In 2024, he accompanied his father, Prince William, to the UEFA European Football Championship final in Berlin. There, he was seen chatting comfortably with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and players, displaying ease at high-profile sporting fixtures.
His Wimbledon debut came even earlier, in 2022. The then eight-year-old attended the finals with his parents, watching Novak Djokovic play against Nick Kyrgios. His demeanour throughout the event reflected a growing confidence in crowded public settings, a crucial preparation for future state occasions.
Family, Tradition, & Private Preparation
Beyond orchestrated events, Prince George's instincts and upbringing shine through. During the 2025 Christmas Sandringham walkabout, his protective gestures towards his younger siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, won public admiration, revealing a innate sense of duty and family loyalty.
He has also shown a keen interest in the military, a tradition deeply embedded in the royal family. This was evident when he joined the family on the Buckingham Palace balcony to watch the Red Arrows flypast, commemorating 80 years since the end of World War II in Europe. This fascination aligns with the path of his father, who served in the armed forces.
Perhaps most crucially, Prince George is receiving private, tailored kingship lessons. Royal expert Richard Fitzwilliams confirmed to the Daily Mail that George is "being well prepared for his unique royal role." He added that as a future King, military service is expected, and his parents are privately schooling him in centuries-old military traditions. Fitzwilliams also referenced Queen Elizabeth II's famous adage, "I must be seen to be believed," suggesting more public appearances by George on state occasions are anticipated.
As Prince George prepares to enter secondary school in September 2026 and steps into his teenage years, these moments collectively paint the picture of a young boy thoughtfully and steadily growing into his historic destiny. The world watches as a future King is shaped, one composed appearance and learned tradition at a time.
