The Princess Royal had one word of advice for Team GB as they made final preparations for the Olympic Games in Paris – enjoy.

Speaking as she met the athletes just hours before the Opening Ceremony of Paris 2024, the Princess wished them every success and said she wished ”it goes as well as you hope in every way”.

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There were warm words of praise for all those who had been selected to represent their country in the Games with Her Royal Highness saying ”it is the process of getting here and some of you are getting here again and again….and again….and again….that is extraordinary.”

With minds turning to competition, the Princess Royal also told them to soak up every moment of the experience, including their stay in the Olympic village, urging them to ng that ”take the chance to enjoy the village….it does have its moments but it can be enjoyed.”

The Princess is speaking from experience – she represented Great Britain at the 1976 Olympics as part of the equestrian team.

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During the meeting, the Princess appeared emotional as she saw the team assemble for a group photo.

The sports stars gathered at the British embassy in Paris to meet the Princess. The reception was hosted by British ambassador to France, Menna Rawlings, who later said she was ”honoured to welcome HRH The Princess Royal and Team GB.

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The embassy gardens were decked with red, white and blue flowers while cocktails and mocktails celebrating the British countryside were served alongside protein rich canapes and burgers.

The two athletes chosen to carry the UK flag at the Opening Ceremony also met the Princess Royal. Gold medal winning diver, Tom Daley, and double Olympic champion rower, Helen Glover, will hold the Union Jack for the spectacular curtain raiser which takes place in the heart of Paris on July 16th 2024.

The Princess Royal had earlier attended a meeting of the International Olympic Committee of which she is a member.