King Felipe VI from Spain had an almost Miss aboard a Spanish naval vessel on Thursday, when a heavy piece of sailing equipment fell just centimeters from him during the preparations for a larger regatta, according to local and British media reports.
The 57-year-old monarch was on board
As Felipe examined his backpack on the deck, a sail and its boom suddenly crashed near him, where he narrowly missed him.
The dramatic moment was caught on video and shared by the Spanish outlet vanitatis, who showed crew members audibly gasping, while Felipe remained composed.
Without expressing alarm, the king looked up briefly to assess the situation and calmly resumed his preparations.
Felipe has been a lifelong sailing enthusiast who competed since 16 and served in the Spanish navy during his youth. Since becoming a monarch in 2014, he has also had the honorary title Captain General.
The AIFOs, which secured second place last year, are not expected to top the leaderboard in 2024, although Felipe remains optimistic, according to Vanitatis.
His eldest daughter, Princess Leonor, recently promoted to Midshipman in the 2nd grade, joined him at Regatta. Her younger sister, Infanta Sofia, did not attend.
Earlier this week, both royal sisters were seen with Prince William and Princess Charlotte at UEFA Women’s Euro Final.
