King Felipe of Spain recently had a close call while at a sailing competition in Majorca. The 57-year-old monarch narrowly avoided a dangerous accident during the Copa del Rey MAPFRE sailing competition. A heavy sail and boom dropped just inches away from the King’s head while he was seated on the deck of the ship, preparing for the competition. Despite the shock of onlookers witnessing the near-miss incident, King Felipe remained unfazed and promptly returned to his preparations.
The Spanish outlet Vanitatis shared a video of the scary moment, capturing the King’s composure in the face of danger. King Felipe is known for his passion for sailing, having trained with the Spanish Navy as the Prince of Asturias. Upon ascending to the throne in 2014, he became Captain General and has continued to pursue his love for sailing, often participating in competitions like the Copa del Rey aboard the Aifos, a vessel of the Spanish Navy. In the 2024 competition, the Aifos finished second, showcasing the King’s dedication and skill in the sport.
Alongside Admiral Jaime Rodríguez Toubes and his crew, King Felipe competes annually in the Copa del Rey sailing competition. His daughter and heir, Princess Leonor, is also following in his footsteps in preparing for the throne. Currently undergoing a three-year military training program, Princess Leonor was recently promoted to the rank of Midshipman of 2nd grade by her father. While it appears that Princess Leonor and her sister, Princess Sofia, may not share their father’s enthusiasm for sailing, they have been seen enjoying other sporting events, such as the 2025 UEFA Women’s EURO Cup.
Despite the competitive nature of the events, the Royal Family of Spain showcased good sportsmanship at the UEFA Women’s EURO Cup, where they were seen interacting with Prince William and Princess Charlotte. Although Spain lost to England in penalty kicks, Princess Leonor and Princess Sofia were gracious in defeat, even posing for a photo with their British counterparts during the match. The Royal Family’s presence at such events highlights their support for sports and their engagement with other royal families on an international level.
King Felipe’s calm reaction in the face of potential danger at sea reflects his steady and composed demeanour as the reigning monarch of Spain. His dedication to sailing and involvement in competitive events like the Copa del Rey demonstrate his commitment to upholding traditions and promoting sportsmanship within the Royal Family. Princess Leonor’s advancement in military training further underscores the family’s preparation for the future. Despite the pressures of royal duties, the family finds time to participate in and support various activities, showcasing a well-rounded and engaged approach to their roles in the public eye.