Mike Tindall delivered an awkward yet amused response when a fellow rugby player failed to recognize his mother-in-law, Princess Anne, during a recent podcast episode.
Podcast Moment Goes Viral
On The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, Tindall chatted with co-host Alex Payne and guests Jonny May and Ben Kayser about Scotland’s thrilling 50-40 victory over France in the Six Nations at Murrayfield Stadium. Former French rugby player Kayser expressed surprise at a post-match interaction, asking Tindall, “You look at the Tuipulotu hug, I don’t even know, who is she exactly? Is she a princess?”
Tindall chuckled, raising his eyebrows, and confirmed, “My mother-in-law, yeah.” Payne clarified, “The Princess Royal.” Still laughing, Tindall added, “When you do meet her, because we’ll make sure that happens, make sure to give her a hug.”
Princess Anne’s Cheeky Rugby Interaction
The discussion highlighted a viral clip from the match where the 75-year-old Princess Royal playfully dodged a hug from Scotland captain Sione Tuipulotu. She wiggled her hands instead before opting for a firm handshake, charming fans and sparking widespread shares on social media.
Strong Family Bonds
Tindall, married to Zara Tindall since 2011, shares a close relationship with Princess Anne. She has appeared on his podcast alongside Prince William and Kate Middleton. Reflecting on the experience, Tindall said, “They were amazing. Rugby has been going through a tough time and we wanted to showcase why it brings people together from all backgrounds, it’s such an inclusive sport, but it also creates great human beings.”
He emphasized her long-term support, noting, “It was more important to showcase why they like sport, why Princess Anne has been a patron of the Scottish Rugby Union for 37 years and why she loves the characters in the game.” Tindall also revealed he affectionately calls her “mam.” The couple has three children: Mia, 12, Lena, seven, and Lucas, four.
Loved-Up at Cheltenham Races
Tindall and Zara recently attended Ladies Day at the Cheltenham Festival, joined by Princess Anne and Carole Middleton. The pair shared a affectionate kiss on arrival, leaving Carole momentarily unsure where to look.
Zara, 44, embraced the event’s theme in a stylish navy blue dress coat by Katherine Hooker featuring a heritage print. She accessorized with a Fairfax & Favor bag, a burgundy 3D hat by Juliette Botterill, gold earrings by Hector Lion, and modern sunglasses.
