Mike Tindall and wife Zara were reportedly eyeing up a major life decision that even caught the eye of King Charles III, who later interjected
King Charles III is believed to have urged Zara and Mike Tindall not to abandon the UK for a new life in Australia. The monarch, who marks his 77th birthday on Friday, is understood to have stepped in regarding the potentially major relocation for the couple.
Zara and Mike first crossed paths in 2003 when they were introduced by Zara’s cousin, Prince Harry, at a Sydney bar during the Rugby World Cup. Australia has since held a special place in their hearts.
The pair married in July 2011 and have welcomed three children – Mia, Lena, and Lucas. Whilst the family presently reside at the Princess Royal’s Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire, talk of a potential move to the other side of the world has persisted.
These whispers are understood to have deeply troubled King Charles. The King reportedly shares a strong bond with the couple, especially with his niece Zara, with their closeness frequently evident at occasions including Royal Ascot, and it may well have been the monarch’s influence that persuaded them to remain in Britain.
In October 2024, a source suggested that Mike and Zara would look to divide their time between Australia and the UK rather than relocating permanently.
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They revealed their intention was “for the family to spend more time in Australia over the coming years which includes both winter and summer holidays abroad with the children.”
News of their choice was apparently greeted with “extreme joy” by the King, who appears anxious about maintaining family unity, particularly given the ongoing situation with Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.
“When the idea was discussed seriously during a sit-down, it drew blank faces and teary eyes from several members of the family,” the source said, via The Express. “It became instantly clear that it wasn’t a move that could ever become permanent. Longer periods of time will be spent in Australia instead.”
Yet their affection for Australia is undeniable. Zara and Mike flew to the Gold Coast this January for the Magic Millions racing event.
The couple made a return trip Down Under in July to support the British and Irish Lions. In a snap posted before one match, the Royal duo posed with the famous Melbourne Cricket Ground behind them. In conversation with Australian Women’s Weekly back in 2019, Zara hinted that moving to Australia might eventually be on the cards.
“Probably not while I’m still competing. It would be a little bit hard commuting. But after that, yes, I think if an opportunity came up, we’d definitely think about it,” she said. Mike added: “It’s not a rushed lifestyle. I think it’s a great place and we enjoy it so much.”
The couple also explored the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park earlier this year. Reflecting on the visit, Mike shared his thoughts on Instagram.
He wrote: “We had the chance to spend a few days on Hamilton Island this week – despite all the times we have been to Australia, we have never been here before and it’s been amazing.”
Adding to speculation that they might consider relocating, he further added: “Queensland definitely has it all. It’s our first time being out on the water in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park too and it really was unreal.”
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