Prince Harry Addresses "Hatgate" Controversy
Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, sparked controversy after attending the World Series Game 4 finale at Dodger Stadium on October 28 wearing a Los Angeles Dodgers hat. The event was held in Toronto, where Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle, were present.
Incident and Public Reaction
Instead of supporting the Toronto Blue Jays, Canada's team, Harry was seen celebrating the Los Angeles Dodgers, which upset many fans. Critics argued that as a member of the UK royal family and a resident of California, he should have shown support for a Commonwealth team rather than a U.S. team.
Harry’s Response and Apology
While in Toronto for Remembrance Day events, Prince Harry addressed the situation in an interview with CTV News. He laughed off the incident and responded to questions about the hat. He then put on a Toronto Blue Jays hat and said,
"I’m a Blue Jays guy... I’m bald, so I thought I’d cover my head."
The prince also sincerely apologized to the Blue Jays’ fans, acknowledging his loyalty to the team and recognizing the importance of showing respect to Canada’s baseball supporters.
Background
- Fans had expected Harry to support a team from the Commonwealth rather than his adopted home, California.
- The Los Angeles Dodgers eventually won Game 7 against the Blue Jays and became the World Series champions.
- Harry and Meghan Markle relocated to California in 2020 after stepping down from their royal roles and have lived there since.
“The UK royal also admitted that he was a ‘Blue Jays throughout’ and wrapped the conversation with an apology to Canada’s Blue Jays' fans.”
Summary: Prince Harry clarified his support for the Toronto Blue Jays and apologized for the Dodgers hat incident, showing respect towards Canadian fans amidst mixed public reactions.