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Important update on 1476AMMoana Pasifika set for royal treatment in Sydney
Jasper Bruce, AAP •  April 14th, 2026 2:00 pm
Prince Harry, Meghan Markle | Photo: AAP
It's been nearly 23 years since Prince Harry celebrated England's Rugby World Cup triumph behind enemy lines in Australia and now the rugby-mad royal is back on a reconnaissance mission.
With preparations well underway for the World Cup to return next year, Rugby Australia boss Phil Waugh will host Harry and wife Meghan Markle in a private suite at Friday's Super Rugby Pacific clash between the NSW Waratahs and Moana Pasifika.
The couple has only one night in Sydney as part of their first visit to Australia since 2018.
But the Harbour City holds good memories for rugby fan Harry, who joined England's celebrations for their 2003 World Cup triumph.
In the final at Stadium Australia, Waugh was vice-captain as the Wallabies had their hearts broken by a Johnny Wilkinson drop goal in the last minute of extra time.
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But there were no hard feelings as Waugh reached out to the Sussexes with tickets to the 'Tahs.
The round-10 Super Rugby Pacific clash will be played almost exactly 18 months before Australia's follow-up World Cup begins in October 2027.
"Harry loves his rugby and we are looking forward to hosting him and Meghan at Friday night's game," said Waugh.
"Australian audiences will remember Harry celebrating as England held aloft the Webb Ellis trophy on these shores in 2003.
"And with the Rugby World Cup returning to Australia next year, we are delighted to welcome him back for a match that will feature Test players from Australia and across the Pacific."
Staff completed a security walk-through at Allianz Stadium last Friday to ensure the couple's safety on the night.
The Sussexes are expected welcome Invictus Games colleagues to the stadium on Friday, when the Waratahs will look to shake off a 42-14 loss to the Chiefs in their last start.
