U-turn After What Happened with King Juan Carlos in Galicia: Absolute Surprise

The arrival of King Juan Carlos I in Galicia has caused great media attention. As is usual during his visits to Sanxenxo, it was expected that the emeritus monarch would focus on his passion for sailing and reuniting with his closest circle. However, this morning there was a moment of absolute surprise that represents a 180° shift in the perception of the former monarch.

While heading to sail with his friend Pedro Campos, the emeritus was greeted with unexpected enthusiasm by a group of children. This gesture was joined by other greetings and applause from local people during his previous outings from the residence. A reception that contrasts with his presence in previous years, leading many to wonder: are we witnessing a progressive reconciliation or is it a one-time phenomenon?

180° Shift After the Warm Welcome to King Juan Carlos in Galicia

Since returning to Spain, Juan Carlos I has focused his visits on Sanxenxo, where he finds refuge among old friends and the Atlantic breeze. Although his figure continues to be a subject of debate in the political and social spheres, the emeritus has chosen to keep a low profile. He has been seen participating in nautical events, enjoying discreet dinners and being friendly with the media, although without making official statements about the issues that still surround him.

This time, the media spotlight has been especially intense due to the recent controversy surrounding Corinna Larsen and Miguel Ángel Revilla. However, in Galicia, he seems to find a bubble of calm where, as shown this week, there are still those who welcome him with affection.

This Friday morning, Juan Carlos I reunited with the waters of the Ría de Pontevedra aboard the Bribón. He captained alongside his friend Pedro Campos, a constant presence in this stage of his life. He did so amid moderate expectation, marked by the presence of media and neighbors alert to his arrival.

While skirting the breakwater of the Sanxenxo marina, something unusual happened. The Bribón crossed paths with six small sailboats carrying about 60 children from the Sanxenxo Nautical School.

The scene was as spontaneous as it was emotional: the children, upon seeing him, began to shout "hello, king!" with enthusiasm. Juan Carlos, from the boat, replied with a kind gesture, waving and smiling.

This gesture marked a clear contrast with the initial reactions he received on previous visits, when there was more talk of reproaches and tensions. Now, the atmosphere seems to have softened, at least in this Galician town where, more than a retired king, many see him as a regular neighbor returning to his happy place.

A Real Change in the Perception of King Juan Carlos?

The affection shown by the children and neighbors in Sanxenxo can't be separated from the symbolic place the emeritus king holds in the collective memory of many Spaniards. Especially in Galicia, where he has forged a close relationship with the maritime community, his appearances evoke more tenderness than controversy.

Some observers point out that this transformation in public reception could be linked to a certain "normalization" of his presence. He is no longer seen as a figure exclusively associated with scandal, but as a historical character trying to regain some of his former everyday life.

This doesn't mean that the debate has dissipated, but at least in Sanxenxo, the tone seems to be changing with King Juan Carlos. Instead of banners and reproaches, there are applause and children's voices greeting him naturally. Could this be the beginning of a kinder phase in his relationship with part of Spanish society?