King Juan Carlos Returns to Spain as Controversial Memoirs Spark Debate

Former Monarch's Return Amidst Memoir Buzz

Former King Juan Carlos I, 87, has recently returned to Spain from his self-imposed exile in Abu Dhabi, a move that coincides with widespread anticipation and controversy surrounding the upcoming release of his memoirs. The book, titled 'Juan Carlos I d'Espagne. Réconciliation' in French, is co-authored with Laurence Debray and is scheduled for publication in France on November 5, with a Spanish release by Editorial Planeta on December 3.

The former monarch's return and the memoir's contents have generated considerable discussion, particularly after fragments were previewed by French media outlets such as Le Monde and Le Figaro, as well as The Telegraph.

Key Revelations and Controversies

The 512-page autobiography aims to 'explain and defend' King Juan Carlos I's decisions and present his own narrative of events. However, early excerpts have already ignited controversy due to several candid admissions and criticisms:

• Financial Dealings: He describes money received from King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia as 'a gift I did not know how to refuse. A grave mistake,' acknowledging 'an act of generosity from one monarchy to another' and admitting that '$100 million is a considerable sum.'
• Personal Relationships: The former King refers to his relationship with Corinna Larsen as a 'mistake' he 'bitterly regrets.'
• Princess Diana: He denies having had an affair with Princess Diana, describing her as 'cold, taciturn, distant, except in the presence of the paparazzi.'
• Franco's Legacy: Juan Carlos I praises Francisco Franco, stating, 'If I was able to be king, it was thanks to him.'
• Family Dynamics: He criticizes his son, King Felipe VI, for having 'turned his back on me out of duty' during his exile, and reveals that Felipe VI called him asking 'where are you going, boss?' when he left Spain in 2020. He also confirms a 'personal disagreement' with his daughter-in-law, Queen Letizia, stating she 'didn't help cohesion in our family relationships.'

Exile and Desire for 'Reconciliation'

King Juan Carlos I has been living in self-imposed exile in Abu Dhabi since August 2020, following various financial allegations. He abdicated the throne in 2014. In his memoirs, he expresses a desire to renew a 'harmonious' relationship with his son and to return to his 'home' in Spain. He also laments being 'the only Spaniard who does not receive a pension after nearly 40 years of service.' His current return to Spain marks another visit since his exile, with previous trips often related to sailing regattas.

Anticipation for the 50th Anniversary of the Monarchy

The release of 'Reconciliation' and King Juan Carlos I's presence in Spain come weeks before the 50th anniversary of the Spanish monarchy, adding another layer of scrutiny to the royal institution. The book is expected to provide his perspective on a tumultuous period of his life and reign, which has been marked by both significant achievements and considerable scandal.