A life marked by royalty and aristocracy
The Spanish royal family is mourning the death of Fernando Gómez-Acebo y Borbó, better known as ‘Coco’. His death has been a sad surprise for the family and for Spanish society. Fernando died at the age of 49 after suffering from severe chronic respiratory failure, which worsened in recent times, Vanitatis and RTVE reported citing sources close to the family.
Fernando Gómez-Acebo y Borbó was the son of Infanta María Pilar de Borbón, sister of King Juan Carlos I, and Luis Gómez-Acebo, a prominent businessman. He belonged to a bloodline closely linked to Spanish royalty. As the nephew of Juan Carlos I and cousin of King Felipe VI, as well as of the Infantas Cristina and Elena, his family legacy was part of Spain’s history. From his marriage to the wealthy Greek heiress Nadia Halamandari, Fernando had an eight-year-old son, Juan Nicolás, who now has to deal with the death of his father.
Felipe VI visits the hospital, Letícia does not
King Felipe VI, upon hearing the news of his cousin, went to the hospital without delay to offer his condolences to the family. His attitude in this moment of sadness shows the respect and affection that the Spanish monarchy has for its members, even if they are in difficult situations. Fernando’s death has moved Spanish society, which wants to pay tribute to Fernando at the funeral home in Tres Cantos, Madrid, where his body will be laid to rest this Saturday.
However, a very prominent absence has been that of Queen Letícia. In what appears to be further evidence of disdain for the royal family, Letícia did not accompany the king to the hospital and is not expected to go to the funeral home to say goodbye to her cousin. In the meantime, it remains to be seen whether the royal house will take steps to ensure the presence of the consort at the funeral mass that will be held soon. The schedule is still to be confirmed, but expectations about Letícia’s participation in this farewell event are high.
