Prince Harry is facing mounting criticism from Canadians as he prepares to visit Toronto this week, just days after being spotted cheering for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Toronto Blue Jays in the World Series. The backlash comes as the former royal is set to attend events honoring Canadian veterans, a cause close to his heart.
The Duke of Sussex, 40, was photographed at game four of the championship series wearing a bright blue Dodgers cap. The image quickly circulated online, angering Canadian fans who were still reeling after the Dodgers beat the Blue Jays in a dramatic game seven on November 1, denying Toronto its first World Series title in 32 years.
Harry’s office confirmed that he will arrive in Toronto on Wednesday, November 5, for a two-day visit “to support the Canadian Armed Forces and veteran community.” The trip includes a private luncheon where he will discuss “international veterans’ issues” ahead of the British Commonwealth’s Remembrance Day, as per Radar Online.
While the visit is meant to highlight Harry’s continued work with military organizations — a focus since his service in the British Army and the creation of the Invictus Games — some Canadians aren’t impressed. Many took to social media to accuse him of lacking loyalty to Commonwealth nations after cheering for an American team.
“Canadians don’t like people with no allegiance either to family or country. What do you stand for exactly? You are only for you! Stay home. Narcissists not required,” one person wrote on X. Another commented, “Will he be wearing his LA Dodgers hat?” alongside a photo of Harry grinning in the stands.
Others questioned the timing of his trip, suggesting it was meant to draw attention away from his brother, Prince William, who is currently in Brazil presenting the Earthshot Prize. “Ha. Trying to smooth over his supporting LA against the home team, Toronto, and his brother, the future king, is in the news,” one critic posted. “Thin-skinned and petty, Harry thinks he has to compete.”
Harry’s recent public appearances have drawn mixed reactions. The couple was booed when shown on the stadium’s big screen during the World Series, just days after Meghan Markle posted Halloween videos featuring the couple and their children, Archie and Lilibet.
The videos, which briefly showed the children’s faces, were deleted soon after, but not before screenshots spread online. Many royal watchers saw it as another misstep in the couple’s ongoing struggle to balance privacy with publicity.
Harry’s Toronto visit aims to refocus attention on his charitable commitments, but with tensions running high, it remains to be seen whether Canadians will welcome him warmly.