In the Spanish Royal Household, changes are evident. With the arrival of Camilo Villarino Marzo as head of the King’s Household at the beginning of this year, a shift towards closer and more spontaneous communication has been noted.
This change is reflected not only in King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, but also in their daughters, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofia. In particular, Sofia is beginning to occupy a more visible role with a schedule that is gradually filling up with engagements.
Infanta Sofía’s Future
Since Felipe VI reduced the structure of the royal family, following the example of other European monarchies, and established a clear difference between the Royal Family and the King’s Family, the presence of his daughters has become a fundamental pillar for the future of the institution.
Although Leonor, as Princess of Asturias, has a clear path to the throne, Sofia is not far behind.
As second in the line of succession, it is essential that she is well prepared for her future role, which includes having a solid education and public support.
Recently, Spanish journalist Carmen Duerto revealed that, once Sofia finishes her studies in Wales, she could receive military training for a year.
This training would be shorter than the three-year training her sister Leonor is undergoing. However, this idea is still up in the air, since according to Duerto “Sofia could be interested and decide to pursue a career there, but that will only be known for sure when she tries it out.”
Sources close to Casa Real report that “Sofia is focused on finishing her studies in Wales. There is still a long time to go before she makes decisions about her future”.
Despite the credibility of Duerto’s sources, there have been no conversations with the Ministry of Defense, nor official planning in this regard.
This news came to light shortly after the delivery of the officer’s offices at the Naval School of Marin, where Leonor will continue her military training in August.
If Sofia follows this path, the Royal Household will handle the situation as discreetly as possible, in coordination with the Ministry of Defense.
It is important to note that Sofia is not obliged to receive this military training.
In the Spanish Royal House there is no tradition of military training for women, as there is in other monarchies, such as the British, where both the Prince of Wales and his brother, Prince Harry, received military training.
Infanta Sofia’s agenda
As for Sofia’s schedule, it has been reported that Maria Dolores Ocaña, who recently joined the Royal Household team, will personally oversee her schedule.
Although Sofia does not have her own team, Queen Letizia’s Secretariat is working to optimize her public presence.
Neither Princess Leonor’s university plans nor Sofia’s interests, which are probably also being developed, are yet known.
For now, Sofia’s appearances are very well received, both those officially announced and the surprises, such as her presence with Leonor at the reception of the Spanish women’s soccer team at the Zarzuela after winning the Eurocup.