The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry have no plans to attend the World Cup football tournament being hosted by Russia, a Royal source has said.

It is expected to be the first time no senior member of the Royal Family has supported England in person during the tournament in decades, and the first time in at least 16 years that neither Prince has attended.

At least one of the brothers has cheered England on at matches in the last three World Cups in Brazil, South Africa and Germany.

The Duke’s attendance at this year's tournament had become contentious after former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal, 66, and his 33-year-old daughter Yulia were targeted by what is believed to be a nerve agent.

As president of the FA, English football's governing body, the Duke would usually be expected to support the national team in person or with a close representative during the World Cup.

His involvement this year will likely be restricted to pre-tournament visits on home soil, or messages to wish the team luck. A source there are “no plans” for the Duke or Prince Harry to attend the games in Russia.