Prince Laurent officially acknowledges his 26-year-old son as a royal prince
Prince Laurent of Belgium has legally recognized his previously undisclosed son, Clément Vandenkerckhove, granting him the title of prince.
The Belgian monarch announced that his son, Clément Vandenkerckhove, will now be formally styled as a prince after years of secrecy. The royal family said they have spoken openly about the relationship in recent years. Although the title changes, Vandenkerckhove, a former car salesman, will not receive any financial allowance from the crown.
Why it matters
It shows how modern monarchies handle previously hidden family members and their official status.
In this story
royal familyprince titlelegal recognitionsecret sonroyal allowanceBelgian monarchy
