With the 2024 Summer Olympic Games in Paris only a few days away, royals across the world are preparing to support their athletes as they represent their kingdoms. While most royals heading to the Olympics will be spectators, there are some who have played much bigger roles with some even having the honour of carrying their country’s flag.

King Harald of Norway, 1964

The then-Crown Prince Harald of Norway (later King Harald V) competed in Sailing in the 1960s and 1970s. In 1964, he carried Norway’s flag at the Opening Ceremony at the Summer Games in Tokyo.

King Felipe VI of Spain, 1992

The then-Prince of Asturias was a member of Spain’s sailing team at the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics. He sailed in the Soling class and placed sixth in his event at the games. Felipe was Spain’s flag bearer during the Parade of Nations during the Opening Ceremonies. The Spanish King has taken part in several Olympic torch relays since, including the 2004 Athens Summer Olympics relay. 

Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, 2008 (United Arab Emirates)

Sheikha Maitha is the daughter of the Emirate of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. She competed in several different forms of martial arts throughout her athletic career. In 2008, she was the first woman chosen to represent the United Arab Emirates at the Olympics and served as their flag bearer for the Opening Ceremonies at the 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics. 

Prince Albert II of Monaco

Prince Albert of Monaco competed in Bobsleigh in five different Winter Olympic Games from 1988 (Calgary) to 2002 (Salt Lake City). In 1988, 1994 and 2002, he carried the flag for his country.

Princess Charlene of Monaco competed for South Africa in the 2000 Olympics, in the 4 x 100m swimming medley. Her team came fifth.

King Constantine II of Greece

Before he took the Greek throne, Constantine competed in the Olympics held in Rome in 1960 and won a gold medal in sailing. He carried the Greek flag at the Opening Ceremony of the Games that year.

A mother/ daughter team

Several other royals from across the world have competed in the Olympic Games. Princess Anne rode in the three-day equestrian event in 1976 and her daughter Zara Tindall won a silver medal in the team event with her horse High Kingdom.