In brief
Belgian Prince Laurent has formally acknowledged 26‑year‑old car salesman Clément Vandenkerckhove as his son and heir, conferring upon him princely status while keeping him outside the line of succession and royal duties. The announcement comes after a quiet ceremony six months ago, following DNA confirmation of the 99.5% match between father and son. Vandenkerckhove, previously known publicly through a 2019 TV documentary, has expressed pride in his family name and may pursue using the royal surname. The move echoes past paternity disputes in the Belgian monarchy, notably King Albert II’s recognition of his firstborn from an affair.
From Car Sales to Crown: A Sudden Royal Recognition
Belgium’s Prince Laurent has officially confirmed the parentage of 26‑year‑old Clément Vandenkerckhove, a former car salesman, and announced that he is now a prince. The decision, made quietly at a town hall ceremony six months ago, grants Vandenkerckhove the title but does not include him in the succession line or bestow any public duties.
Wendy Van Wanten (whose real name is Iris Vandenkerckhove), a Belgian singer, had a headline‑making relationship with Prince Laurent before he married Princess Claire in 2003. The paternity was discovered after a 99.5 % DNA match confirmed by a laboratory test.
Vandenkerckhove expressed his pride in his family name and indicated he may keep it even if he were to adopt the Saxe‑Coburg surname. He will, however, not receive the royal allowance or participate in official ceremonies.
His recognition echoes past scandals: King Albert II’s own paternity dispute led to his abdication in 2013, and Delphine Boël later secured recognition as a princess. Since 2013, only a handful of Belgian royals—King Philippe, King Albert II, Prince Laurent, and Princess Astrid—are entitled to public allowances.
