The ‘dark horse’ who could be essential to Prince William when he is King | Royal | News
Some key players in the Royal Family have stepped back from royal duties, including Prince Harry, Meghan Markle and Prince Andrew, with a total of 10 members working at the firm. As the working royal family shrinks, it is thought Prince William will look to the younger generation and the ‘dark horse’ to give the monarchy a breath of fresh air.
Lady Louise Windsor, 21, is currently in her fourth year of studying English at the University of St Andrews and may take on some royal responsibilities when she graduates. Louise’s parents, the Duke of Edinburgh, 61, and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, 60, are the second youngest couple in the Firm and are increasingly popular.
Royal author and expert Christopher Wilson described Lady Louise as a “dark horse contender”.
Wilson has said before Daily Mail: “Public demand for the participation of a royal to celebrate major and minor events across the country is as high as ever.
“Prince Andrew retired in disgrace in November 2019. Harry fled the coop with Meghan in 2020. The troops abandoned the battlefield, leaving their future commander, Prince William, in despair.”
He added: “That leaves Lady Louise Windsor, a dark horse contender who fascinates everyone who meets her and could be a decorative and useful asset to the royal team.”
Beyond her education, Louise is an accomplished car driver, a passion she once shared with her late grandfather, Prince Philip.
Duchess Sophie previously revealed that Prince Philip was “delighted” that his grandson wanted to take up sports.
She said: “My father-in-law was always very good at encouragement, he really encouraged Lady Louise. So not only did he say ‘please can I try’ but he was great with Lady Louise when he showed a flair for it.”
“They were chatting about it and if he was racing at the Great Park he would always turn up, always come to watch him and watch his training days.”
William and Louise were said to share a warm relationship as she was a bridesmaid at his wedding to Princess Kate in 2011.
