Daniel Levy has revealed that he has thanked Prince William for his role in helping Aston Villa secure a vital victory for Tottenham Hotspur in the battle to remain in the Premier League earlier this month. Roberto De Zerbi’s side left Villa Park with a 2-1 win. The result gives Spurs a glimmer of hope, with manager William hoping to maintain their top-flight status in their battle against West Ham.
The former Spurs chairman attended an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle where he was awarded an Order of the British Empire by the Prince of Wales in recognition of Tottenham’s charity work and contribution to the local community, including education, health, social inclusion and job creation through the construction of the club’s stadium. Levy, who stepped down in September after almost 25 years in charge, never imagined relegation when he oversaw the £1bn stadium development in 2019.
Tottenham remain just two points above the relegation zone with nine wins from 36 games. After sacking Thomas Frank, relieving Igor Tudor of caretaker duties and appointing Roberto de Zerbi in April, Spurs finally secured their first win of 2026 with a 1-0 win over relegated Wolves on April 25, but they are without a win at home in the league since the start of December.
Levy continues to follow the club closely and revealed that he spoke to William about Villa when he accepted the honour, as the Prince is a long-time fan. “When we played against Aston Villa a few weeks ago, I thanked them for allowing us (Tottenham) to beat Aston Villa,” said the former president.
“He wished us the best of luck for the rest of the season and really wanted Tottenham to survive in the Premier League.” Levy, who has led the club for 24 years and is the longest-serving chairman in the Premier League, was also asked about Spurs’ season and insisted he could not have imagined it would end like this when he resigned last year.
“We couldn’t have imagined this at the beginning of the season. We’re obviously pretty disappointed, but we’re hopeful and looking forward and really hoping that we can stay in the Premier League next season,” he added.
“I’m feeling the pain, but I feel optimistic that we’ll get through it. It’s been very difficult, but like I said, Spurs is in my blood. I’m hopeful that I’ll be okay in the end.”
Levy continued: “I’m always optimistic and I pray every day that we can survive[relegation]. It’s interesting to take part in each individual game, but my only focus is on making sure Tottenham stay in the Premier League.”
Spurs will continue their Premier League campaign when they travel to Stamford Bridge next Tuesday (May 19) to take on Chelsea as they battle for survival. It’s not a memorable place for Levi.
“Oh, it’s tough,” he said of the match. “It’s never been a good place for us, but I hope this year will be different.”
Spurs have not beaten the Blues since February 2023, when they won 2-0 at home with goals from Oliver Skipp and Harry Kane. Meanwhile, West Ham play away to Newcastle United on Sunday (May 17), with the relegation battle looking set to be entangled until the final day.
