The honorary royal couple of Spain once again find themselves on different continents, but this time—in the same country. By twist of fate, Juan Carlos I and Queen Sofía are both in the United States at the same time. However, despite this geographic proximity, their paths run parallel without crossing, and the purposes of their visits are sharply different, highlighting their current roles and priorities.
The former monarch, accompanied by his eldest daughter Infanta Elena, has arrived in bustling New York City with a clear sporting objective. His passion is sailing, and he is here to participate in the prestigious 6 Metre World Championship regatta. The goal is ambitious: together with his yacht “Bribon” crew, he aims to defend the title won in 2023 off the coast of the Isle of Wight. The competition at the elite Seawanhaka Corinthian Yacht Club in Oyster Bay will continue until the end of September, demanding full focus. Meanwhile, his wife Queen Sofía is engaged in a mission of a very different kind in Washington, D.C., the U.S. capital.
Her visit, much shorter and filled with official events, is dedicated to strengthening cultural and historical ties. The Queen arrived to preside over an important symposium focused on Spain’s contribution to the achievement of independence by the North American nation. This event, organized as part of the “America & Spain250” project, aims to shed light on lesser-known chapters of history and highlight the fundamental role of the Spanish crown in the development of American democracy. Her program began with a reception at the Spanish embassy residence, where she once again acted as the country’s top cultural diplomat.
It is worth noting that this is already the second time in a short period that the couple have found themselves in close proximity, yet did not meet. While only 350 kilometers now separate them between New York and Washington, just a few weeks ago the distance was even less. Back then, the honorary king landed at La Coruña airport en route to Sanxenxo, while his wife was in nearby Ferrol, serving as the sponsor at the launching ceremony of the new frigate Bonifaz.
For 86-year-old Doña Sofía, this transoceanic trip was yet another testament to her tireless energy and dedication to duty. She once again took center stage in the official agenda after remaining at the Zarzuela Palace while King Felipe and Queen Letizia visited Egypt. This journey followed a difficult, bittersweet summer. For the first time in many years, she had to forgo her traditional extended vacation at her beloved Marivent Palace in Mallorca. The reason was her concern for her sister, Princess Irene of Greece, whose health has recently become a serious worry for the family. Doña Sofía, who is affectionately called her sister’s tireless guardian angel by those close to her, devoted nearly the entire summer to her, breaking a long-standing tradition. Nevertheless, she also found time for other family matters, making a short trip at the end of August to her homeland, Greece, to congratulate her sister-in-law, Queen Anne-Marie, on her 79th birthday—a woman she has continually supported since the passing of King Constantine II.
