Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie have always been close, and it is clear that the pair have remained as such, despite everything that has happened with the Sussexes in recent years
Zara Tindall chats to Prince Harry and Meghan at Eugenie’s wedding in 2018
After it was reported that The Duke and Duchess of Sussex have bought a property in Portugal, it has become clear that they wish to stay close to one particular family member – Princess Eugenie. Despite the tumultuous past four years, Harry has kept his strong bond with his cousin.
Given that Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank already own a property in Portugal, this move could mean more frequent meet-ups for the cousins and their kids. Princess Eugenie, who managed to stay neutral when asked by Prince William to co-host a garden party, might be the bridge the royals need, suggests a royal expert.
“Eugenie undoubtedly does have something of a challenge on her hands to maintain good relationships with both Harry and Meghan – and the rest of the Royal Family,” former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond tells OK!
“But I think the King is probably happy that Harry still has at least one royal cousin he clearly trusts, and presumably wants to see more of.”
“The family are all so busy that they don’t really see that much of one another. However, I think it’s a positive thing that Charles does have someone he can quietly ask about Harry’s well-being, if he is so inclined. And Harry can presumably gauge the mood of the family via Eugenie.”
“Any reconciliation – which at this stage still seems unlikely – has to start somewhere and with someone. And that person could possibly be Eugenie… but don’t hold your breath.”
According to Jennie, both Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie would benefit from this move, as it would allow Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet to build relationships with their father’s family members and play with Eugenie and Jack’s sons, August and Ernest Brooksbank. .
“I think it perhaps suggests that they DO want their children to know at least some of their UK family,” Jennie says. “It will be good for Archie and Lilibet to spend time with their little cousins, and Eugenie will remain an important link between Harry and the rest of his family.”
However, Jennie questions the couple’s decision to purchase a property in Portugal, stating: “I don’t know quite why they feel they need to BUY a place, especially given that Harry has complained about lack of money in the past, rather than just stay with Jack and Eugenie or rent a place, but it suggests that they intend to spend more time on this side of the Atlantic.”
She adds: “And that’s a positive move because it implies that the children won’t be solely immersed in American culture and will have a better understanding of their European roots.”
The revelation of Harry and Meghan’s relocation to Portugal follows their departure from Frogmore Cottage in the UK last year, prompted by a request from King Charles. This left the Sussexes without a UK base, having relocated to California where they now reside with their two children.
The late Queen had previously bestowed the Windsor Estate property upon them shortly after their 2018 wedding. They moved into the home in 2019 and remained there until their royal duties ceased in 2020. The keys were returned in 2023.
