The absence of Infanta Sofia at the tribute to King Constantine of Greece, who died on 2023 at the age of 82, has sparked controversy among supporters of the Spanish royal family.
While her grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles and one of her cousins went to St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle for a memorial service for the former Greek monarch the youngest daughter of King Felipe and Queen Letizia remained in Wales, where she is studying for the International Baccalaureate at the prestigious UWC Atlantic College, the same place where her sister, Princess Leonor, studied.
Why the Infanta Sofia is being criticized
The decision of the Infanta Sofia, 16, contrasts with that of her cousin Juan Urdangarin, 24, who lives in London and who did not hesitate to accompany his mother, the Infanta Cristina, and his aunt, the Infanta Elena, in this emotional act.
Juan, who studied International Relations and Economics at the University of Essex and has worked as a volunteer in Cambodia, showed his closeness and affection for his family during the death of this relative.
Why didn’t the Infanta Sofía do what her cousin did? According to some sources consulted by the Spanish press, the main reason could be Queen Letizia’s desire to prevent her daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia, from having too much contact with King Juan Carlos I, who also attended the funeral of his brother-in-law.
Queen Letizia would not have a good relationship with the retired king, who has been involved in several scandals in recent years.
In addition, Queen Letizia would be very concerned about the safety and privacy of her daughters and would prefer that they stay out of the media spotlight.
This attitude of the King and Queen has been criticized by some royal experts, such as journalist Pilar Eyre, who believes that they are overprotecting their daughters and that this prevents society from getting to know and identify with them.
The Infanta Sofia, following in the footsteps of her older sister, who also studied at the UWC Atlantic College, has decided not to leave the school, not even to greet her parents, according to e-noticias media.
Instead, Juan Urdangarin demonstrated his commitment to the Crown and his solidarity with his family.
The pictures published show that he was very attentive to the Infanta Cristina and very cordial with his aunt, Elena de Borbón.