The Royal Household has officially confirmed a decision regarding the institutional agenda of the Royal Family. By publishing the weekly schedule of official activities, Zarzuela has left Queen Sofía completely free of institutional commitments. This decision becomes significant at a time when one of the most desired events for the crown is approaching: Princess Leonor's return after her journey as a midshipman.
However, this apparent absence of official activities could conceal a deeper family strategy. Sources close to the institution suggest that Queen Sofía herself is seriously considering the possibility of traveling to the United States to personally welcome her eldest granddaughter. Could this decision by the Royal Household be a way to facilitate the emotional reunion between grandmother and granddaughter?
The royal household leaves Queen Sofía without official engagements this week
According to the calendar published by Zarzuela, the first week of June will be marked by intense institutional activity led by Felipe VI and Doña Letizia. On Thursday, June 5, a key date for Princess Leonor, the king will receive Jordanian monarch Abdullah II at the Zarzuela Palace. That same day, Queen Letizia will preside over the board meeting of the Residencia de Estudiantes in Madrid.
The rest of the week will also be filled with significant events. Highlights include the royals' visit to Brañosera, the South Summit business congress, and the Armed Forces Day events to be held between the Canary Islands and the peninsula. With such a packed agenda, there is no room for trips abroad.
Infanta Elena will be in El Pardo presiding over the awards ceremony for the National Heritage Children's and Youth Painting Contest. This event, one of the few she continues to lead since her departure from the institution, confirms her commitment to cultural and educational activities.
In contrast, there are no official commitments listed for Queen Sofía. This situation has surprised many observers, who believe her free schedule could be part of an unannounced plan. There is talk that she could be present in New York to accompany Leonor at the close of a crucial stage in her education.
Chances increase that Queen Sofía will welcome Princess Leonor in New York
Princess Leonor will complete her participation as a midshipman aboard the Juan Sebastián de Elcano on June 5. The historic ship, emblem of the Spanish Navy, will dock in New York to mark the end of a formative journey that has deeply impacted the heir to the throne.
Expectations surrounding her arrival are at their highest. However, neither Felipe VI nor Letizia will attend to welcome her, which has caused some surprise and fueled the possibility that Queen Sofía will do so. The last time they appeared together publicly was several months ago, so a reunion in the United States would carry enormous symbolic weight.
Sources close to the Royal Family state that a private trip by the emeritus queen can't be ruled out. In her role as grandmother and a close figure to her grandchildren, her presence at an unofficial event could be interpreted as discreet emotional support for the future queen.
The exclusion of Queen Sofía from the official agenda has raised alarms about her possible appearance in New York alongside Leonor. Her silence, far from dispelling doubts, reinforces rumors of a personal trip filled with symbolism. Will Doña Sofía ultimately be the one to welcome the princess at the end of her journey on the Juan Sebastián Elcano?