Princess Leonor experienced an unexpected moment during Spain's National Day celebrations in Madrid when the insignia of her Order of the Golden Fleece fell from her uniform.
The 20-year-old heir to the Spanish throne quickly picked up the medal and slipped it into her pocket. Shortly afterward, her father, King Felipe VI, stepped in to help, carefully reattaching the insignia to her uniform in front of the guests.
Princess Leonor's Unexpected Mishap During the Parade
Despite the minor incident, the occasion marked an important milestone for the young royal.
It was Leonor's first National Day celebration since completing her three-year military training across Spain's Army, Navy, and Air Force. She is now studying at the Getafe campus of Carlos III University.
For the occasion, Leonor wore the same Army uniform she had worn in 2023, when she first participated in the parade as a cadet at the Military Academy in Zaragoza.
King Felipe, dressed in his Air Force uniform, stood alongside his daughter in the royal grandstand.
Queen Letizia and Infanta Sofía Join the Celebrations
The Spanish royal family gathered in the VIP stand, with Princess Leonor taking her traditional place to the right of her father.
Queen Letizia looked elegant in a pastel pink dress accessorized with a pearl brooch, while Infanta Sofía, 19, opted for a striking red pantsuit.
Sofía had traveled from Paris, where she is currently in her second year at Forward College, to join her family for the celebrations.
Following the military parade, the royals attended the traditional reception at the Royal Palace.
King Felipe and Princess Leonor Honor Fallen Soldiers
One of the most solemn moments of the celebrations came when King Felipe and Princess Leonor paid tribute to soldiers who had lost their lives in the line of duty.
Father and daughter laid a laurel wreath together before the Mirlo formation flew over Madrid in Pilatus PC-21 aircraft.
The aircraft held special significance for Leonor, who had trained with the same model during her time at the Air Force Academy.
The celebrations concluded with a reception at the Royal Palace, where the royal family welcomed guests, including representatives of civil society from Ceuta and Melilla.
