Victoria Federica, a well-known member of Spain’s royal family and a figure often surrounded by intrigue, has once again found herself at the center of a whirlwind of controversy.

This time, her actions have sparked discussions not just within the confines of the royal household but also across media outlets and social platforms. The latest uproar stems from an advertisement Victoria participated in—a collaboration with HBO Max and Starbucks tied to the hit series House of the Dragon.

The ad’s content and implicit messages have raised eyebrows and fueled speculation, particularly about her relationship with her cousin, Princess Leonor, and her stance within the broader royal framework.

The controversy began when Victoria Federica, who has been gradually carving out a niche for herself as an influencer, took part in a campaign for the series.

In the advertisement, Victoria portrays a customer at a Starbucks who references the show’s dramatic themes of power struggles and succession. The ad includes a playful, albeit provocative, nod to the show’s premise of competing claims to a throne.

During the interaction, Victoria is seen removing her sunglasses while remarking, “When I decide, there will be signs,” and dons a cap with the phrase “The Legitimate Heir.” While the ad’s connection to House of the Dragon seems clear, its deeper implications have caused ripples among royal observers and critics.

The tagline and Victoria’s delivery have been interpreted as a subtle jab at the royal family’s current dynamics. Historically, the Spanish monarchy has adhered to male-preference primogeniture, a tradition that has only recently begun to shift with Princess Leonor being groomed as the heir apparent.

Had these rules been different in the past, Victoria’s mother, Infanta Elena, would have been the reigning monarch instead of King Felipe VI.

Consequently, Victoria’s positioning as the “legitimate heir” in the advertisement has reignited debates about gender equality in royal successions and the perceived sidelining of certain branches of the family.

The timing of this campaign further fuels speculation about its intent. It comes shortly after Princess Leonor’s highly publicized appearance at the Armed Forces Day parade, an event that marked a significant milestone in her preparation for future queenship. Leonor, at just 17 years old, has become a symbol of modernization within the monarchy.

However, her rise has not been without challenges, particularly from segments of the extended royal family who feel excluded from the spotlight. Victoria’s ad is being viewed by some as an attempt to overshadow Leonor’s growing prominence, a notion that has only added to the tension between the cousins.

Victoria’s career as an influencer has been a subject of both admiration and criticism. While some applaud her for stepping out of traditional royal roles to pursue her interests, others see her actions as a departure from the dignity expected of royalty.

Her collaborations with major brands and participation in public events often draw mixed reactions, highlighting the divide between modernity and tradition within Spain’s royal family. The latest campaign, however, has arguably crossed a line for critics who perceive it as an affront to Princess Leonor and the monarchy’s established order.

The backlash has not been limited to media scrutiny. Reports suggest that King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia were unimpressed by the advertisement, viewing it as a challenge to Leonor’s image and position. Letizia, in particular, is known for her protective stance towards her daughters and their public portrayal.

The ad’s insinuations may have reinforced existing tensions between Letizia and Victoria, whose relationship has been described as strained over the years. Furthermore, Victoria’s frequent association with her grandfather, King Juan Carlos I, a figure often at odds with Felipe and Letizia’s vision for the monarchy, has only added to the friction.

For Victoria, however, the ad may represent more than just a marketing opportunity. It could be seen as a bold declaration of her individuality and a subtle critique of the institution that she remains a part of but often feels distanced from.

Her decision to collaborate on a project that touches on themes of power, succession, and legitimacy may well reflect her own views on her family’s internal dynamics. Whether intentional or not, the campaign underscores the complexities of being a modern royal in a world that increasingly values personal expression over tradition.

The broader implications of this controversy are significant. It highlights the evolving role of monarchy in contemporary society and the challenges faced by young royals navigating public life. Princess Leonor and Victoria Federica, while sharing a family lineage, represent two very different paths within this institution.

Leonor’s trajectory is steeped in duty and responsibility, aligning with centuries of royal tradition. In contrast, Victoria’s embrace of modern media and personal branding signals a departure from these norms, raising questions about the future of royal roles in Spain and beyond.

Moreover, the incident has sparked discussions about the media’s role in shaping public perceptions of the royal family. Critics argue that outlets sympathetic to anti-monarchist sentiments have amplified the controversy, framing Victoria’s actions as part of a broader critique of the monarchy.

Others point out that Victoria herself has often been a polarizing figure, with her actions frequently interpreted through a critical lens. The ad, while undoubtedly provocative, may also be seen as a reflection of this ongoing narrative, where every move by a royal is scrutinized and dissected.

Despite the uproar, it is worth noting that Victoria has her defenders. Supporters argue that she has the right to pursue a career and express herself freely, especially given her position outside the direct line of succession.

They see her collaboration with major brands as a testament to her charisma and appeal, qualities that make her a valuable figure in the world of entertainment and media. For these advocates, the backlash against the ad is an overreaction, rooted more in traditionalist expectations than in any genuine breach of royal protocol.

As the dust settles, it remains to be seen how this controversy will impact Victoria’s standing within the royal family and the public eye. The advertisement, while intended as a lighthearted promotion, has opened up deeper conversations about identity, legacy, and the future of Spain’s monarchy.

For Princess Leonor, the incident serves as a reminder of the challenges she faces as she prepares to assume her role as queen. For Victoria Federica, it is a testament to the power of media in shaping narratives, whether intentional or not.

In the end, this episode encapsulates the tension between tradition and modernity that defines the Spanish monarchy today. It highlights the struggles of individuals caught between their royal heritage and the desire to carve out their own paths.

Whether viewed as a misstep or a bold statement, Victoria Federica’s campaign underscores the complexities of life within a centuries-old institution adapting to the demands of the 21st century.

The question now is whether the royal family can navigate these challenges without fracturing further or whether this incident marks a turning point in its evolution.