Queen Sofía has spent most of this summer in Madrid, away from the traditional Marivent residence in Mallorca. The delicate health condition of her sister Irene of Greece has led the mother of King Felipe VI to decide to remain in the capital to accompany her and care for her closely. This decision even led her to minimize her stay on the Balearic island.
The emeritus consort barely traveled to Mallorca for 48 hours, during which she participated in an official event alongside her son, Queen Letizia, and her granddaughters. Once the institutional event was over, Sofía immediately returned to Madrid, once again prioritizing family over summer traditions. However, this discretion has given way to an announcement that brings excitement both inside and outside the Royal Household.
A different summer for Queen Sofía
The summer of Queen Sofía has been marked by serenity and the absence of public exposure. While other members of the royal family kept their usual activities in Mallorca, she chose to prioritize caring for her sister. Her presence in Madrid was constant, thus reinforcing her image as a woman devoted to her family.
This decision surprised many, since Sofía has always been an essential figure during the Marivent holidays. Nevertheless, the personal situation required her attention, which explains why she minimized her time on the island. This gesture has been interpreted as a sign of responsibility and humanity on the part of the emeritus queen.
The limited public schedule and absence from social events fueled rumors about a possible withdrawal. However, sources close to her insist that Sofía is in good spirits and that she simply prioritized her family environment this summer.
She resumes her official schedule in September
A spokesperson for the Borbón family has confirmed the rumor that had been circulating for weeks about the emeritus queen. Queen Sofía will resume her official schedule in the second week of September, thus marking her return to institutional life. The news is a source of joy both for her close circle and for those who have followed her for years.
This is not the first time that, after a period of discretion, she reappears to support highly relevant events. The decision to return now reinforces her role as a close and active figure within the Royal Household.
Her participation in institutional events also disproves any rumors about a possible distancing. On the contrary, it shows that the mother of King Felipe VI remains an important support for the institution and a role model for many Spaniards.
Queen Sofía will sponsor the F-111 "Bonifaz" frigate
The desired return of Queen Sofía will take place at a highly significant event for the Spanish Navy. On September 11, the emeritus consort will sponsor the launching of the F-111 Bonifaz frigate at Navantia Ferrol. This is an event that will mark a milestone in the construction of the vessel, the first unit of the new F-110 series.
The ceremony will be held at 7:39 p.m., coinciding with high tide, the ideal moment for the ship to touch the water for the first time. After this launching, the final work afloat will begin, focused on the installation of advanced systems and equipment. The frigate will replace the veteran Santa María-class ships, which represents a key technological leap for the Navy.
Meanwhile, Navantia Ferrol has already begun construction of the second unit, and the blocks of the third are progressing in the shipyards. Queen Sofía's presence as sponsor brings a solemn character to a strategic event for national defense.