Belgian Prince’s Godchild Linked to Bardella, Rising Star of the French Far Right
French media have been on high alert since Jordan Bardella, chairman of the far-right Rassemblement National, was spotted hand in hand with none other than Maria Carolina de Bourbon of the Two Sicilies, a 22-year-old princess and remarkably the godchild of Belgium’s Prince Laurent.
The encounter took place on 13 January during the prestigious celebration of the 200th anniversary of Le Figaro at Paris’s Grand Palais. Bardella left the event in visible intimacy with the heiress of the House of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, the eldest daughter of the Duke of Castro. Although the couple has not officially confirmed a relationship, the symbolism alone has already set tongues wagging.
For Bardella, who presents himself as the spokesman of the “forgotten Frenchman” against “contemptuous elites,” the possible romance is politically explosive. The French newspaper Le Monde describes the relationship as “very risky”: the contrast between his populist rhetoric and Maria Carolina’s jet-set image, she is known for showcasing her luxurious lifestyle on social media, could undermine the image he has carefully cultivated.
The affair threatens to blur the central message of the RN, which defines itself in opposition to the established order. What does it mean for a party that claims to represent the people if its leader is romantically linked to aristocracy?
In Belgium, the story has sparked surprise mainly because of Maria Carolina’s family connection to the royal house. As Prince Laurent’s godchild, she draws the Belgian monarchy indirectly into an unexpected political grey zone.
Whether this is a fleeting flirtation or a lasting relationship remains unclear. One thing, however, is certain: for Bardella, this romance is not a private matter, but a risk.
Source:
Jordan Bardella en couple avec la filleule du prince Laurent ? "C'est très risqué" - La Libre