The controversy centers on an alleged encounter between Javier Negre, president of EDATV, and King Felipe VI during the inauguration of Colombia’s president, Abelardo de la Espriella. Reports place the 2026 ceremony in Cali, where Felipe VI attended alongside international dignitaries. The episode has fueled debate about the king’s public encounters with media figures and the boundaries of access at official events.
The inauguration was part of a wider schedule of presidential ceremonies attended by Felipe VI. Argentina’s president, Javier Milei, later said he had also encountered the Spanish monarch at inaugurations in Colombia and Peru. Milei described his relationship with Felipe VI as “excellent” and said a meeting in Madrid had not taken place because of scheduling constraints.
The reported exchange involving Negre has raised questions about protocol and the public role of journalists and media executives at formal ceremonies. Felipe VI’s presence at the Colombian event also drew coverage for his appeal to protect democratic institutions and safeguard coexistence, as reported by Agencia EFE.
The relationship between King Felipe VI and media figures has drawn public scrutiny before. A previous report examined the fallout after the king appeared in a photo with Javier Negre in Colombia, amid debate over the monarchy’s associations and the influence of polarizing media leaders. For further context, see this detailed report on the king's photo with Javier Negre.
As with other public-facing institutions, the monarchy’s appearances at official events can prompt debate about how it handles access and representation, and how the public perceives it. The Colombian inauguration brought together political figures and international representatives, drawing attention to the king’s presence beyond the ceremony itself.
