Since stepping down as a working royal in 2020, Prince Harry has settled in Montecito, California, with his wife, Meghan Markle and their two children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3.

He has described his family as “the best gift” he’s ever received.

Despite the public birthday message from the Prince of Wales, sources suggest that a meaningful reconciliation between the brothers remains unlikely.

Although not a deeply personal note, William’s willingness to acknowledge his brother on his birthday demonstrates how he will treat his brother when he becomes King – with distant respect and at more than arm’s length.

Their relationship has been strained since Harry’s departure from royal duties and his subsequent revelations about family life in his memoir Spare.

The two did not engage during a recent memorial service for their late uncle, Sir Robert Fellowes, held in the UK.

And although Harry has expressed excitement about turning 40, it is understood that no member of the Firm will fly to the United States to mark the milestone.

Harry is expected to celebrate his birthday privately in Montecito, surrounded by close family and friends.

In addition to the gathering, he has planned a hiking trip in the nearby California mountains with a few of his closest pals.