Princess Anne Attends Winter Olympics in Cortina to Cheer on Team GB’s Curling Mixed Doubles Team and Inspire Athletes

Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, brought her trademark poise and sporting spirit to the Cortina Olympic Stadium on Monday as she watched Team GB’s Curling Mixed Doubles duo compete for a bronze medal.

At 75, Anne still commands attention without seeking it, arriving in her favourite Adidas wraparound sunglasses — a gift from the London 2012 Olympics — that she has been spotted wearing numerous times over the past decade.

Joining Team GB’s Chef de Mission, Eve Muirhead, Anne watched Jen Dodds and Bruce Mouat narrowly miss out on third place against Italy, all while maintaining her classic royal composure and quietly cheering her team.

A Royal Moment for Athletes

It wasn’t just curling fans who got a treat.

Earlier in the Games, Canadian freestyle skier Megan Oldham had a brief but memorable encounter with Princess Anne after winning bronze in the Women’s Free Ski Slopestyle.

The 24-year-old described Anne as “so sweet,” recalling how the Princess congratulated her, asked about her upcoming events, and wished her luck for the Big Air competition later in the week.

Anne’s warmth and attentiveness during these encounters have drawn praise from athletes and spectators alike, highlighting her unique ability to connect with competitors while representing the Royal Family with dignity.

From Rugby Stands to Alpine Slopes

This week has been a whirlwind for Anne.

Just days before Cortina, she attended England’s Six Nations rugby match at Twickenham, where fans erupted in cheers, leaving the Princess momentarily surprised.

As patron of the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) for nearly 30 years, she has been a consistent supporter of the sport, attending games both in the UK and abroad.

Her involvement extends beyond simply cheering from the stands.

Anne actively supports grassroots initiatives, including her recent patronage of the Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation (MIPDF), which helps provide care and support to injured rugby players.

Ian Rankin, MIPDF chair, described her as “a dedicated supporter of the Scotland rugby team” whose passion for sport is evident at all levels.

A Lifetime of Sporting Excellence

Princess Anne’s connection to the Olympic world is deep-rooted.

She competed in equestrian events at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and has been involved in the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and as President of the British Olympic Association.

This makes her the first member of the British Royal Family to have participated in the Olympic Games.

She frequently attends both Summer and Winter Olympics, often offering personal messages of encouragement to Team GB athletes.

Ahead of Milano Cortina 2026, Anne posted a video wishing Team GB luck, saying, “As your competitions begin, know that you will have the support of the nation.

On behalf of us all, I wish you the very best of luck.”

A Down-to-Earth Royal with a No-Frills Approach

Despite her high-profile status, Anne has long been celebrated as the Royal Family’s most approachable and down-to-earth member.

From engaging with athletes like Oldham to quietly enjoying Six Nations matches without fanfare, she consistently demonstrates humility and warmth.

Fans have lauded her “dignity and grace,” noting that she embodies the Queen’s steadiness while remaining a fantastic role model for women around the world.

Her sense of humor and quick wit also come through in casual interactions, making her presence both reassuring and memorable to those who meet her.

What’s Next?

Princess Anne is expected to continue her Olympic engagements, including attending further events at Cortina and possibly Milan for medal ceremonies.

Her involvement with grassroots sports and Team GB athletes suggests she will continue serving as both mentor and cheerleader, offering encouragement behind the scenes as well as in public appearances.

With the Winter Olympics underway and Team GB athletes striving for medals, Princess Anne’s support is a tangible reminder of the Royal Family’s commitment to sports and national pride.

Fans can expect more moments of connection, congratulations, and quiet encouragement from the Princess Royal throughout the remainder of the Games.

Summary

Princess Anne visited Cortina to watch Team GB’s Curling Mixed Doubles team compete for a bronze medal, sporting her iconic Adidas sunglasses from the 2012 London Olympics.

She has also been seen connecting with athletes personally, including Canadian freestyle skier Megan Oldham, offering congratulations and encouragement.

The Princess Royal, who has a long history with both the Olympics and rugby, continues to combine public appearances with active support for grassroots initiatives like the Murrayfield Injured Players Foundation.

Known for her down-to-earth nature, Anne effortlessly balances her royal duties with genuine engagement in sports, demonstrating grace, humility, and dedication to athletes and fans alike.