Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Portugal Move Fuels Speculation of "Rival Royals" in Europe
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's recent purchase of a home in Portugal is stirring up rumors about their strategic positioning as "rival royals" in Europe. Experts suggest this move could strengthen their ties within the royal family and provide a European retreat for Harry.
Harry and Meghan's New Portugal Home Sparks “Rival Royals” Speculation
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's latest real estate purchase in Portugal has ignited conversations about their broader intentions, with royal experts suggesting it could be a calculated step toward establishing themselves as influential figures in Europe. The couple, who currently reside in California, are reportedly using this new property as a retreat that would also allow them to expand their European connections.
In an interview featured on Express.co.uk, royal commentator and Daily Mail’s Diary Editor Richard Eden shared insights into what this move could mean for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. According to Eden, the Portuguese home could act as a refuge for Harry, offering him an opportunity to reconnect with old friends from the UK. He stated, “Perhaps Portugal is a place where Harry can gather his friends and escape for a while. He has lost touch with many people back home, but this could serve as a place to reconnect, saying, ‘Why don’t you join me in Portugal for a few days?’”
The expert also emphasized that this property acquisition might play a pivotal role in Meghan and Harry’s ongoing efforts to create an alternative royal presence in Europe. Eden speculated that the couple could use the home as part of their strategy to develop their status as “rival royals” to the British monarchy, particularly by leveraging the ease of travel that Portugal offers. He remarked, “Securing a Golden Visa could benefit Meghan, allowing her and Harry to navigate Europe more freely as they continue to build their identity. We’ve already seen them take part in quasi-royal tours of places like Nigeria and Colombia.”
Eden further highlighted the potential for this new chapter in their lives to strengthen Harry’s relationships within the royal family. His cousin, Princess Eugenie, and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, also own property in Portugal, and this could foster a closer bond between the couples. “It’s possible that Harry and Meghan’s move could bring them closer to Princess Eugenie and Jack, and they might end up creating their own royal circle in Europe,” Eden added.
The benefits of this move extend beyond family ties. According to Eden, Portugal’s Golden Visa program, which previously granted property owners unrestricted access throughout Europe, could play a significant role in the Sussexes’ future endeavors. Although the program has undergone recent changes, it could still offer substantial advantages for the couple’s travel plans. “The Golden Visa would have given Meghan and Harry freedom to travel across Europe without restrictions, helping them in their broader, international goals,” he noted.
While this move marks a significant step in their post-royal journey, some observers remain hopeful that it could pave the way for Harry’s return to the UK. Speculation continues about whether this new chapter in Portugal will bring the couple closer to their British roots or further entrench their global lifestyle.