A journey into the distance
King Juan Carlos I has left behind the summers in Palma de Mallorca that he used to enjoy, and since 2019, his life has taken place thousands of kilometers from his native country. His current situation appears to be an attempt to stay away from the royal family, a strategy driven by the need to maintain the stability of the crown under his son, Philip VI.
Family estrangement
The distance between Juan Carlos and his family is evident. Felipe and Letizia have made it clear that they do not wish to maintain close contact with him, which has led to connections between the emeritus and his granddaughters, especially the heiress Leonor, being almost non-existent. Meanwhile, the image of the Bourbon family is being rebuilt, trying to forget a figure marked by scandal and controversy.
Return to public life
Despite his estrangement, Juan Carlos I has begun to move more frequently between Spain and the United Arab Emirates. After spending his first year of exile unable to leave Abu Dhabi, he now makes frequent visits, mainly to Sanxenxo, where he meets friends and participates in sporting events. These trips appear to be a way of seeking a sense of normality in his life.
Deteriorated health
However, his health remains a matter of concern. Years of hip and knee problems, aggravated by an accident more than a decade ago, have diminished his quality of life. Juan Carlos is undergoing regenerative medicine treatment, which provides temporary relief, but his need to use a wheelchair is a reality he constantly faces, hiding this aspect from the media whenever he can.
The pressure on Felipe VI
With his father’s health in decline and pressure to maintain the image of the monarchy, Felipe VI finds himself at a crossroads. He is said to be aware of the former monarch’s current situation, through his sisters, who are concerned about their father’s well-being. However, despite their apparent connection, Felipe may not act until the situation becomes critical.
Constant comunication
Although Felipe VI has made the decision to distance himself publicly, in private, he has not forgotten his father. Constant contact with the staff who cares for Juan Carlos keeps Felipe informed about his health, which further complicates this family relationship.
An uncertain future
The future of the Spanish monarchy and the relationship between Juan Carlos and Felipe VI is uncertain. The shadow of the emeritus continues to loom, while the royal family tries to move in a new direction. The challenges facing the current king are considerable, and echoes of the past continue to resonate in the present.