Spain continues to buzz over the upcoming autobiography of Iñaki Urdangarin, the former husband of Infanta Cristina. Already dubbed one of the year’s most anticipated releases, the book was expected to shed light on the most closely guarded chapters of the ex-Duke of Palma’s life. Yet, contrary to expectations, instead of revealing confessions about the royal family or sensational exposés, readers are in for something completely different.
Early announcements gave the impression these memoirs would make headlines. Promises were made of inside details about his marriage to Cristina, the notorious Nóos case, years spent in prison, and his new life with lawyer Ainhoa Armentia. But as more details emerged, it became clear: the book is more akin to a self-help manual than the cathartic account of a man at the heart of royal intrigue.
Promises vs Reality
The first leaks only fueled public interest. There was talk of an “honest account” and “revelations” that would touch not just on Urdangarin’s sports career, but also on his ties with the Bourbon family and his disillusionment with King Juan Carlos I. In practice, however, the author steers clear of controversies. The book contains almost no mention of the divorce, conflicts with the king, or personal details of his life with Cristina. Anything related to the inner workings of the royal family remains out of sight.
Instead, Urdangarin focuses on his personal journey of overcoming adversity, highlighting the lessons learned from public disgrace and imprisonment. He writes about coping with the loss of privacy, learning to rebuild himself, and finding new meaning in life. This is not a story of revenge or an attempt at justification—rather, it is an effort to rethink the past and share an experience of personal transformation.
A new role and team
The theme of professional reinvention holds a special place in the book. After his release from prison, Urdangarin pursued studies in psychology and coaching, which became the starting point of his new career. Together with two like-minded partners—Nuria Sala and Iñaki Saltor—he founded Bevolutive, a company specializing in leadership development and teamwork.
Sala is in charge of strategy and marketing, while Saltor leads coaching and investments. For Urdangarin, this team has become not just business partners but also a crucial support network during a difficult period. In the book, he details how their collaboration helped him regain confidence and believe in himself again.
Promotion and expectations
Interestingly, the publisher is marketing the book under the “Business and Entrepreneurship” category, rather than as a memoir about the royal family. This decision surprised those who were hoping for sensational revelations. Instead of scandal, readers are offered a set of self-help tips grounded in the author’s personal experiences.
Nevertheless, Urdangarin is not shying away from the public eye. A major promotional campaign is expected soon, during which he may reveal some details not included in the book. For now, one thing is clear: the former Duke of Palma has chosen a path of personal growth and professional development instead of dwelling on the past.
A look from the outside
Many in Spain are wondering: why did Urdangarin choose not to lay all his cards on the table? Some believe he wants to avoid further straining relations with his former family, while others see it as part of his strategy for building a new image. In any case, his memoirs have already sparked discussion, despite the lack of sensational details.
Perhaps the main takeaway from this story is that even the boldest promises do not always match reality. Sometimes, behind the façade of scandal, lies a desire to start over and share what truly matters to the author.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Iñaki Urdangarin is a former professional handball player, the ex-husband of Infanta Cristina, and the father of four children. In 2018, he was convicted in the Nóos case and spent several years in prison. After his release, he began working as a coach and founded Bevolutive, a company specializing in leadership and team development. His new book will be released in February 2026 and has already generated significant buzz in Spanish society.
