The popular race for the tenth anniversary of Felipe VI was marked by a highly discussed absence. Queen Letizia decided not to attend the event, which closed the commemorative activities of the reign. The decision has surprised even experts on the Royal Household.
King Felipe couldn't attend because he was in Murcia with an official agenda. Letizia was expected to attend alone, as a representative of the institution. However, the queen chose not to do so, and that has caused much criticism.
The event was designed to strengthen the monarchy's public image. The race had a symbolic character and aimed to connect the institution with the public. However, the total absence of the Royal Family has led to a negative interpretation.
Many see this gesture as a lack of involvement. Letizia had no commitments that day and could have made an appearance. Her choice not to attend has been interpreted as a sign of distance.
The royal family comes out weakened
Several media outlets and analysts have expressed disappointment. They believe it was the perfect moment to support an initiative that seeks continuity. Her presence would have given institutional relevance and media visibility to the event.
The organizers wanted the race to become an annual tradition. In countries like Denmark, similar events have royal support and are carefully attended to. The symbolic involvement of the royal family helps these kinds of initiatives become established.
No one asked the queen to run the entire race. It would have been enough for her to attend to start the race or to present an award. It would have been a simple gesture but with great public impact.
The race was a success in terms of participation and had a festive atmosphere. Even so, the absence of the Royal Household was very evident to everyone. Many expected at least a brief visit, a greeting, or an institutional photo.
Zarzuela's silence hasn't helped either. No explanation has been given for the decision not to attend. That has increased discomfort and debate about the royal commitment to this type of event.
Several regular chroniclers of the monarchy have shown their confusion. Although Felipe was busy, they believe Letizia should have represented the institution. Her role in these kinds of events is key to keeping close to the citizens.
The controversial decision of Queen Letizia
At a time when the monarchy seeks to project a modern image, these gestures matter a lot. Distance or coldness can be misinterpreted. Small details also build the public narrative of an institution.
Other countries handle this balance more carefully. At similar events, their royal families always make some appearance. Even a brief gesture can make a huge difference in public perception.
Many believe a valuable opportunity has been lost. Queen Letizia has shown great involvement in social events on other occasions. However, this time her absence has been difficult to understand and justify.
The goal of the event was to bring the figure of the king closer to the public. Not being present at it sends the opposite message. That, in the midst of the ten-year anniversary of the reign, is contradictory.
The Royal Household needs to strengthen public trust. That is also achieved with symbolic gestures like this. The impact of a decision like this goes beyond a simple event.
The disappointment has been greater because it was the closing of the anniversary events. A final act that should have left a good impression has ended up generating discomfort. The main person responsible, this time, has been Letizia.