King Juan Carlos I could reunite very soon with his granddaughter, Princess Leonor. According to an exclusive report by El Cierre Digital, both could meet within a few days in the Dominican Republic. This possible encounter, loaded with symbolism, would occur during the stopover of the ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano in Santo Domingo.
Leonor is currently in the midst of a journey aboard the training ship, traveling along various coasts of America. After passing through Panama and making a stop in Cartagena de Indias, the next stage of the route will take her directly to the Dominican Republic. She will disembark there on May 19 and will remain until the 24th, on an official visit with significant institutional weight.
Meanwhile, various sources from the Dominican diplomatic and business sectors have confirmed to El Cierre Digital that Juan Carlos is also expected to arrive in Punta Cana. The Emeritus would travel under the hospitality of his trusted friend, sugar magnate Pepe Fanjul. This coincidence in the calendar has sparked speculation about a possible and significant reunion between grandfather and granddaughter.
The Princess of Asturias is immersed in intense training as a midshipman, which is taking her to visit different countries across the Atlantic. In Panama, where the ship recently docked, Leonor received a very special visit from her mother, Queen Letizia. They shared an affectionate hug at the port, attended a reception on board, and were seen very close.
After this Panamanian stage, the next stop has been Colombia, where the Elcano ship will dock in Cartagena de Indias. There, the princess will stay for about five days before heading to the Dominican Republic. In that final destination, the expectation has multiplied at the possibility of Leonor meeting her grandfather, whom she hasn't been seen with for years.
Punta Cana, Juan Carlos I's Caribbean refuge
Punta Cana has become one of the Emeritus King's favorite destinations since he resides outside of Spain. In that exclusive area of the Dominican Caribbean, he has the logistical and personal support of his close friend, Pepe Fanjul, who opens the doors of the island to him. It wouldn't be the first time Juan Carlos I uses this connection to settle for a few days away from Europe.
According to reports, if the Emeritus finally decides to land in Punta Cana during those days in May, the reunion with Leonor would be feasible. Although there is no official confirmation, the coincidence of dates and geographical proximity have sparked institutional and media interest. It would be the first public image of both together since she assumed greater responsibilities as heir.
Leonor is fulfilling her commitment to military training, a process that will culminate before she begins her university stage. This stage on the Juan Sebastián de Elcano has added symbolic value, as it represents her full integration into the discipline of the Armed Forces. The meeting with her grandfather, who was Head of State for decades and held the supreme command of the Armies, would have strong emotional and political value.
The reunion of Leonor and Juan Carlos would strengthen their bond
Although Felipe VI has kept institutional distance from Juan Carlos I, the family bond between Juan Carlos and his granddaughter can't be ignored. A possible reunion in the Caribbean would be a gesture of silent rapprochement, away from the Spanish media spotlight. To date, no source close to Zarzuela has confirmed or denied this possibility.
The city of Santo Domingo is already preparing for the arrival of the Elcano ship and its distinguished crew. Leonor will participate in scheduled events with her companions, following the agenda set by the Spanish Navy. The possibility of her grandfather being in Dominican territory at the same time adds an unexpected component to the trip.
Local businessmen, diplomats, and media have begun to consider this private visit of the Emeritus as imminent. The expectation intensifies as the date of May 19 approaches, the day scheduled for the disembarkation. Any movement by King Juan Carlos will be closely watched for its possible family symbolism.
A coincidence that could mark a turning point
This possible reunion between Juan Carlos I and Leonor would not only have personal significance but would also open political interpretations. Leonor's figure is strongly projected as a future queen, while Juan Carlos remains distant from Spanish institutional life. Seeing them together in this context of military training would be a powerful image, with a clear message of continuity.
If the meeting takes place, it could be interpreted as a sign of family reconciliation or, at least, recognition between generations. It would be another step in the process of building Leonor's public narrative as heir. At the same time, it could soften the Emeritus's image at a time of certain international invisibility.
For now, everything remains in the realm of possibility. But if Juan Carlos I arrives in the Dominican Republic and meets his granddaughter, it will be one of the most significant moments in recent years in the recent history of the Royal Family.