Paris has become the epicenter of world sportWith the Olympic Games coming up, the Spanish Royal Family did not want to miss the opportunity to show its support for the national athletes. Following the visit of Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, and the subsequent appearance of Queen Letizia, it was the turn of King Felipe VI, who took over the family in the French capital.
The monarch arrived in Paris on Saturday morning and has since immersed himself in the Olympic maelstrom, witnessing various competitions in which the Spanish flag waved proudly. Following in the footsteps of his daughters and wife, King Felipe VI has demonstrated his commitment to Spanish sport.
However, Saturday’s day was marked by a meeting that transcended national borders. The King coincided in the athletics box with other members of European royalty, such as King Carl Gustav and Queen Silvia of Sweden, with whom he exchanged cordial greetings.
Nevertheless, It was the presence of Princess Amalia of the Netherlands that captured all eyes. The close relationship between the two royal families, with King Felipe VI being the godfather of the Dutch heiress, was evident in the complicity they showed during the women’s 3×3 basketball tournament. The cameras captured the shared emotion during the clash between Spain and Germany, and even an emotional hug when the score was in favour of the Spanish team.
This meeting has rekindled the debate about the lack of public contact between Princess Leonor and Princess Amalia. Both young women, destined to occupy the throne of their respective countries, share a similar destiny and it would be enriching to strengthen the bond between them. As the Princess of Asturias takes on more responsibilities in view of her future as Queen of Spain, strengthening ties with her European counterparts is emerging as a pending task.
Meanwhile, King Felipe VI continues with his agenda in the French capital, carrying the torch of family support for Spanish athletes. With his presence, the monarch not only encourages the athletes, but also reinforces the image of Spain on the international scene, in a setting where sport and royalty go hand in hand.
