Else Beekman
On June 19, Felipe VI celebrated his tenth year as King of Spain. On the occasion of this milestone, Infanta Sofía and Princess Leonor gave a surprise speech for their father. That created an emotional moment for the surprised Spanish head of state.
After a formal start to the day, in which the three army units and the Guardia Civil paraded through the streets of Madrid, a ceremony followed on the balcony of the Royal Palace. The royal family, consisting of King Felipe VI, Queen Letizia, Princess Leonor and Infanta Sofía, observed the event up close. After the official ceremonies, including the presentation of the medals of the Order of Civil Merit, the ceremony continued in the palace dining room.
Also read: Key moments from ten years of King Felipe VI’s reign
Surprise speech from Leonor and Sofía
During the gala at the palace, Felipe VI’s daughters spoke outside protocol. After a signal from their mother, Queen Letizia, the princesses rose from their places to address their father. Letizia tapped her glass with a spoon to get the attention and silence of those present, after which Leonor and Sofia thanked their parents. Leonor started with: “Mama, daddy, your majesties. Sorry to interfere, but we also have something to say today.”
King emotional
Leonor read the text from a mobile phone and spoke about the lessons they learned from their parents and the importance of the monarchy. “Thank you for teaching us what dedication means, and how important it is to be there for everyone,” she continued. Sofía added: “Mom, dad, thank you.” Felipe VI, visibly emotional, thanked his daughters for their surprise speech with a kiss on the hand.
Felipe VI moved by surprise speech
The unexpected and emotional moment provided a unique insight into the personal life of the Spanish royal family and underlined the love and appreciation within the family, as well as their dedication to their roles and responsibilities.
Pero qué maravilla es esta? La “sorpresa” de Leonor y Sofía a sus padres orquestada por Letizia: primero les da aviso (ahora) y luego pide silencio a la mesa tocando con la cucharita en la copa. Felipe contiene las lágrimas y Letizia se aplaude 😂😂😂😂 #bodylanguage #protocolo pic.twitter.com/Zyga94ADKy
— Patrycia Centeno (@PoliticayModa) June 19, 2024