Queen Mary's Potential AFL Team Switch Causes Controversy
In a move that defies Australian football tradition, Queen Mary of Denmark has hinted she might switch her AFL allegiances, leaving comedian Dave Hughes outraged. The Tasmanian-born royal displayed her Australian sporting heritage on Tuesday by kicking a goal at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Royal Visit to the MCG
Accompanied by her husband, King Frederik of Denmark, Queen Mary mingled with Hawthorn players James Sicily and Will Day, along with AFLW stars Emily Bates and Eliza West. When asked about her AFL team, the long-time Carlton supporter gave a mischievous response.
'I do have, but maybe it will change in a few years,' she said, alluding to the Tasmanian Devils' scheduled entry into the AFL in 2028.
Dave Hughes' Outburst
The news of Mary's potential defection has not been well received by Carlton tragic Dave Hughes, who accused the royal of treachery. In a video posted to Facebook, Hughes expressed his disbelief.
'What the f**k? Queen Mary's a Carlton supporter ... you can't go to Hawthorn, Queen Mary,' the comedian said. 'Stick with us, you f**king...'
Hughes captioned the video, 'I just found out Queen Mary supports Carlton FC then I just found out she is thinking of swapping to f**ken Hawthorn. Treachery is not taken kindly around these parts.'
It appears Hughes mistakenly named Hawthorn as the club Mary might switch to, likely because the Hawks have played some home games in Tasmania in recent seasons.
AFL Culture and Loyalty
If Queen Mary does shift her support from the Blues to the Devils, she would be committing one of Australian football's cardinal sins. Changing team allegiances is heavily frowned upon in AFL culture, where fans are expected to adhere to the 'pick and stick' rule—remaining loyal to their club regardless of circumstances.
Royal Tour Details
The Danish royals are on a six-day visit to Australia, their first since Frederik became King in 2024. Their itinerary in Victoria included an official reception at Government House and visits to sustainable energy developments.
Royal enthusiasts, including host mother Cris and her Danish exchange student Ulrich, managed to see the couple in Prahran. Cris noted that Queen Mary recognized Ulrich's Danish scarf, adding a personal touch to the encounter.
Workers Sarah Muschamp and Amelia Annat also seized the opportunity to witness Danish royalty, with Muschamp likening Queen Mary's story to an Australian fairytale.
Historical Context and Trip Objectives
King Frederik and Queen Mary were greeted by Governor Margaret Gardner and her husband Glyn Davis at Government House. This visit marks their first to Australia since ascending the throne, following meetings with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and a trip to Uluru.
King Frederik described Australia as their second home, recalling how he met the Hobart-born Queen in a Sydney pub during the 2000 Olympics before their marriage in 2004. The official purpose of the tour is to strengthen trade ties between Denmark and Australia, with a focus on clean energy initiatives.
