King Harald V of Norway died on August 28 at the age of 89. The monarch had reigned since 1991 and, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II in 2022, was considered Europe’s oldest living monarch.

Following Harald’s death, the crown passed to his son, who now reigns as King Haakon. The state funeral is scheduled for September 9. Members of European royal families and other dignitaries are expected to attend in Norway—but King Charles will not be among them.

Prince William Will Represent King Charles in Norway

Prince William will attend the funeral in place of his father. According to Hello!, the Prince of Wales will travel to Norway alongside Princess Anne. Charles is following a long-standing practice observed during Queen Elizabeth II’s reign: the British monarch does not typically attend the funerals of other heads of state.

Harald was also a distant cousin of Charles, and the two royal families shared close ties through Queen Elizabeth II.

Charles Paid Tribute to Harald in an Instagram Post

Following the Norwegian king’s death, Charles issued a personal statement.

“It is with the most profound sadness that my wife and I have learned of the death of my dear cousin, King Harald V of Norway,” Charles said.

He continued: “For thirty-five years, King Harald served his people with unwavering dedication, guiding Norway through times of great change with warmth and humility.”

The tribute was shared in an Instagram post by the British royal family shortly after news of Harald’s death emerged.

Princess Anne Will Attend as King Haakon’s Godmother

Princess Anne is not attending the ceremony solely as a representative of the British royal family. She will also attend in her personal capacity as King Haakon’s godmother.

Other members of the Norwegian royal family are expected to attend, including King Haakon, Queen Mette-Marit, Queen Sonja, Princess Astrid, Crown Princess Ingrid, and Prince Sverre. Following his father’s death, Haakon declared a period of national mourning, which is set to last until October 9.

Marius Borg Høiby’s Attendance Sparks Debate

The participation of Marius Borg Høiby, the late king’s great-grandson, is also reportedly sparking debate. He was convicted of rape in June and has appealed the verdict. As a result, the ruling is not yet legally binding.

Nevertheless, he was reportedly granted permission to attend the funeral.