Relations between Harry and Meghan and the Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, have been strained for some time. It is widely believed that William and Harry are no longer on speaking terms.

Since Harry, 41, and Meghan, 44, stepped back from senior royal duties in 2020, a series of candid interviews and public revelations have further damaged family ties.

But could things shift in 2026? Here’s what we know.

Why a public reunion may not happen

Former royal butler Grant Harrold, who previously worked closely with Princes William and Harry, believes a public reconciliation is unlikely in the near future.

Speaking on behalf of AceOdds, Grant explained: “I think a public reunion with Harry and Meghan is unlikely. The relationship between William and Harry is badly damaged, and trust has been broken.

“Any attempt to repair it would happen privately, behind closed doors. While 2026 could present opportunities for the brothers to meet, including events like the World Cup in the US, I don’t expect anything to be made public.”

Tensions between the brothers are said to have been building for years, with reports suggesting the first cracks appeared when Harry began dating Meghan.

Harry has previously said William raised concerns about the speed of the relationship. In his memoir, Spare, he also claimed that William physically attacked him during an argument about Meghan in 2019.

After stepping away from royal life in early 2020, Harry and Meghan relocated to the US and have rarely appeared publicly with the royal family since.

‘There’s no point in continuing to fight any more’

In May last year, Prince Harry spoke openly about wanting to reconcile with his family after losing a court appeal related to his UK security arrangements.

When Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties, their publicly funded security in the UK was reduced and placed on a case-by-case basis. Harry later challenged that decision in court but was unsuccessful.

Following the ruling, he told the BBC: “Of course, some members of my family will never forgive me for writing a book. But I would love reconciliation with my family. There’s no point in continuing to fight any more. Life is precious.”

Later in the year, Harry reportedly met privately with his father, King Charles, for tea at Clarence House in London. Prince William, however, was not believed to be present.

Whether the brothers will eventually come face to face again remains uncertain.

Looking ahead to 2026

Grant Harrold also shared his predictions for the royal family’s plans in 2026.

He said: “I think it’s very likely the Waleses will undertake a long-haul overseas tour in 2026. We haven’t seen a major trip from them in several years, but that is likely to change. As the future of the monarchy, overseas tours are a key part of their role.

“These visits require long-term planning, so preparations may already be underway. We had three State Visits in 2025, which is higher than usual, and I expect more in 2026.”

For now, it appears any potential reconciliation will remain out of the public eye, leaving royal watchers to wait and see what the coming year brings.