Why does Henry want Richard to inherit his crown in the film, The Lion in Winter?

Henry announces that Richard is to marry Alais and inherit the crown. John protests, but Henry tells him he's much less suited to be king than Richard is, saying sadly that all his dreams are lost. Henry says that Richard would simply take the crown if it weren't given to him. He concludes by saying that by giving the crown to Richard, his fondest dream, keeping the kingdom together, is realized.