The Infanta Sofia turned 18 on April 29, 2025, and the gesture of her father, King Felipe, has made it clear how much he values her role within the institution.
It is the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabella the Catholic, a recognition reserved for people who have demonstrated an outstanding contribution to the nation or to the strengthening of ties with other countries.
Infanta Sofia receives the Grand Cross of the Order of Isabel the Catholic
The decoration, granted by Royal Decree after being approved by the Council of Ministers, marks a turning point in the public life of the youngest daughter of the King and Queen.
Although Sofia has no institutional obligations in the short term, nor will she follow the military path like her sister Leonor, her father wanted to make it clear that her role in the royal family is relevant.
In Zarzuela they speak of an awakened young woman, with her own personality and a very close relationship with her sister. They say she is very clear about where she is and what she represents.
For now, her academic future is still open. She finishes the International Baccalaureate in Wales this summer, and the Royal House confirms that different options are being studied for the following year.