Today, April 29, 2025, Infanta Sofía of Spain celebrates her 18th birthday—a significant moment not just for the young royal herself, but for the evolving image of the Spanish monarchy. As she steps into adulthood, there is growing public interest in what lies ahead for the second daughter of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain.
Born in Madrid in 2007, Sofía de Todos los Santos de Borbón y Ortiz is the younger sister of Princess Leonor and second in line to the throne. While Leonor’s path as heir apparent is clearly defined, Sofía’s future is less rigid, allowing for greater personal and academic freedom. The Royal House released 5 gorgeous portraits of the second in line to the throne to mark the birthday. The pictures were taken in the gardens of the Royal Palace of Zarzuela.
Currently completing her studies at the prestigious UWC Atlantic College in Wales, where she is pursuing the International Baccalaureate, Sofía has impressed many with her quiet poise and growing independence. Her graduation is expected in May, yet questions remain about her next steps. Unlike her sister, Sofía is not expected to undergo military training, and the Royal Household has suggested that her future may include university studies abroad or a gap year.
Over the past year, she has begun taking on more public roles, including her first solo engagement in December 2024, where she presented awards for the “Objetivo Patrimonio” photography contest. The event marked a symbolic shift, showing that while not the heir, Sofía is clearly being prepared for a supporting role in the institution of the monarchy. Today’s celebration is a quiet one—Sofía will mark her birthday privately in Wales with her classmates. Her parents, King Felipe and Queen Letizia, are attending official engagements in Jaén to commemorate the city’s 1,200th anniversary, underscoring the balance between personal milestones and public duty that defines royal life.
