Princess Leonor of Spain, the heir presumptive to the Spanish throne, has increasingly captured global attention. While her path to becoming Queen is carefully laid out, a recent rumour involving Spanish footballer Gavi briefly shifted focus to her personal life.
1.) Rumours of a link to footballer Gavi and focus on duties
In a detail that particularly captured attention, rumours circulated in 2022 about a potential romance between Princess Leonor and Spanish footballer Gavi. A report by The Times of India suggested King Felipe VI had even requested a signed jersey from Gavi. However, these rumors have largely been unconfirmed, with sources indicating that Gavi declined any special personalised gesture for the princess, remaining focused on his football career. Both individuals are reportedly prioritising their respective demanding paths – Leonor her royal duties and training, and Gavi his career.
2.) Heir to the Spanish throne: A future queen regnant born on October 31, 2005
Princess Leonor is the elder daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia. She holds the title of Princess of Asturias and is first in line to the Spanish throne, the BBC reported. Her succession would mark a significant moment in Spanish history, as she would be the first Queen regnant since Isabella II, whose reign ended in 1868. As per AP News, on her 18th birthday in October 2023, she formally swore allegiance to the Spanish Constitution in Parliament, a crucial step solidifying her eligibility to become queen.
3.) Elite international education at UWC Atlantic College
Princess Leonor pursued her International Baccalaureate at the prestigious UWC Atlantic College in Wales, UK. This boarding school, housed in a 12th-century castle, is known for its diverse student body and emphasis on global citizenship. Her education here provided a blend of academic rigor and personal development before her military commitments. (Source: BBC News, HOLA!)
4.) Rigorous military training: Following in her father's footsteps
Following her graduation from UWC Atlantic College in May 2023, Princess Leonor embarked on a demanding three-year military training programme. This comprehensive training is a tradition for heirs to the Spanish throne, preparing them for their eventual role as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, HOLA! reported. She began her training at the General Military Academy in Zaragoza (Army), is currently undergoing naval training at the Naval Military Academy of Marín, which includes time on the Training Ship Juan Sebastián de Elcano, and will conclude her final year with the Air and Space Army. Her dedication to this rigorous path has been widely noted, Marineforum Online reported.
5. Public image and 'Leonormania': A modern royal figure
Despite a relatively private upbringing, Princess Leonor's public profile has steadily risen, leading to what some media outlets have termed "Leonormania." As per a report in The Financial Express, she has shown poise in public appearances, including presiding over her own Princess of Asturias awards. Her carefully managed image is seen by many as a symbol of renewed confidence in the Spanish monarchy, particularly after controversies involving her grandfather, former King Juan Carlos I, AP News reported.
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