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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Dan Haygarth

Secret son of Belgian royal officially named a prince after 26 years

  • Former car salesman Clément Vandenkerckhove has officially been named a Belgian prince after being recognised by his biological father, Prince Laurent.
  • The 26-year-old is the secret child of Prince Laurent, brother of King Philippe, and Flemish singer Iris Vandenkerckhove, known as Wendy Van Wanten.
  • A DNA test confirmed a 99.5 per cent match between Prince Laurent and Mr Vandenkerckhove, culminating in a private family ceremony six months ago.
  • Although entitled to use a royal title and a share of his father's inheritance, he will not receive a royal allowance or join the line of succession.
  • Mr Vandenkerckhove said that building a relationship with his father matters most to him, and he remains proud to keep his mother's surname.

IN FULL

Former car salesman becomes Belgian prince after parentage confirmed

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