The Infanta Sofia is clear: she does not want to go through military training.
That was the decision that, according to sources close to Zarzuela quoted by Monarquía Confidencial, she has already taken and that, although it was a possibility contemplated, has not been well received by her father, King Felipe VI.
Sofia Rejects Military Training, Felipe Displeased
For the monarch, military education has a symbolic and practical value. For Felipe, it strengthens character, builds relationships, and represents a direct link to the institutional commitment that the Crown maintains with Spain.
As the sources consulted point out, “from Felipe VI’s point of view, military training is essential”.
Sofia is about to finish high school at the UWC Atlantic College, in Wales, and although she has not yet decided what university career she will study or where, the truth is that for the moment she completely rules out any military training.
His parents know this and respect his time, although the king considers that at least a basic training would be desirable, as a gesture towards the institution.
“The infantas Elena and Cristina did not have military training, but they were also other times,” the sources recall.
A decision that marks differences
Although Sofia is not the heir, she is second in the line of succession, so every step she takes also generates attention.
Her decision to follow a different path from that of her sister breaks with recent tradition and opens a debate within the Royal House itself.
Sofia’s naturalness in public has been one of her hallmarks. More relaxed and spontaneous than Princess Leonor, this character has led to talk of her charisma, although it is also recognized within the family that she should not overshadow her sister. Comparisons, although inevitable, are not what is sought.
According to Monarchy Confidential, qualified sources assured: “Sofia has more freedom to choose her path, but if she had decided to receive military training, a comparison with her sister would be unconsciously established”.
A gesture that says a lot
During the carnivals organized by her school in Wales, Sofia had to choose what to dress up as. A classmate, also Spanish, suggested that she dress up as a soldier, a reference to the uniforms that Leonor has worn during her military training.
Sofia, with a laugh, said no. It may seem an unimportant anecdote, but in the current context, it is one more clue to her firm decision.
For now, there is no hurry to define the infanta’s academic and professional future. She has the support of her parents and, as sources point out, she has time to decide.