Another insider explained: “He still sees himself as a prince of the people. He wants to reclaim attention and remind everyone he doesn’t need William or the Palace to define his role.”
Growing Rift With Prince William
Prince William, now 43, reportedly opposes any meetings between Harry and their father, King Charles III, during this trip. Harry last saw his father briefly in February 2023, following the King’s cancer announcement.
The brothers themselves last crossed paths in August 2024 at Lord Robert Fellowes’ funeral, where tensions reportedly remained high.
“Ultimately, William is a loyal soldier… but he thinks a Harry meeting is a terrible, terrible idea,” a friend of the future King told the Daily Beast.
Still, Harry’s circle insists he will not be swayed.
“Harry’s never been about protocol,” a friend told Shuter. “He’s about people, service, connection. Whether or not William likes it, Harry isn’t going to stop.”

No Room for the King—But Plenty of Demands
Harry’s crowded schedule appears to leave little time for King Charles, despite ongoing rumors of a reconciliation. Reports suggest the two cannot agree on when to meet, with additional tension stemming from Harry’s reported “list of demands.”
These include full Palace-funded security for himself, Meghan, and their children; stricter control of paparazzi access; and even that Meghan be recognized as HRH, despite stepping away from royal duties in 2020.
Despite the obstacles, Harry is said to remain hopeful about building a stronger connection with Britain again.
“He’s not given up hope on bringing his family back to the UK,” a friend told The Times. “He wants to show his children where he grew up, let them know their family here. He would really like to return much more often.”