Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex, has confirmed that he will continue his work as patron of the Rugby Football League (RFL) – despite plans to step back as a 'senior' member of the Royal Family.

Prince Harry succeeded HM The Queen as Patron of the RFL in December 2016 and hosted the draw for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup in Buckingham Palace earlier this month.

Ralph Rimmer, RFL chief executive, said the national governing body was "pleased" that the prince would continue his work.

"We received a message from the Palace explaining that the Duke will continue to work with his patronages – as confirmed in the statements from HM The Queen and Buckingham Palace," Rimmer said.

“We're delighted – he has shown a genuine commitment to working with us, initially getting involved in our community and youth programmes and sharing his support for England Rugby League. He has also demonstrated his personal commitment to our sport’s Mental Fitness Charter."

Prince Harry has been an active advocate for the power of sport throughout his Royal career. In 2014 he founded Invictus Games, the international adaptive sport competition for wounded armed service people and veterans.