Royal Olympians: The Royals who have competed in an Olympic Games

King Harald V, then Crown Prince Harald, competed in sailing for Norway. He participated in three consecutive Olympics, showcasing his talent in the sport. Harald’s dedication and skill in sailing were evident, although he did not secure a medal. His commitment to sports has remained a significant part of his life, even as King.

Princess Anne, the daughter of Queen Elizabeth II, became the first member of the British royal family to compete in the Olympics. She participated in the three-day equestrian event aboard her horse, Goodwill. Despite a fall during the cross-country phase, she completed the event, showing remarkable resilience and determination. Although she did not win a medal, her participation was a significant moment in Olympic history.

Infanta Cristina, the younger sister of King Felipe VI, competed in sailing at the Seoul 1988 Olympics in the 470 class. Although she did not medal, her involvement was a testament to her skill and dedication to the sport.

Prince Albert II is a veteran of the Winter Olympics, having competed in five different games. He represented Monaco in bobsleigh, participating in both the two-man and four-man events. Although he never medaled, his dedication to the sport and his consistent presence at the games earned him respect in the sporting community.

King Felipe VI, then Prince Felipe, competed in sailing during the Barcelona 1992 Olympics. He was part of the Spanish sailing team in the Soling class. While his team did not win a medal, his participation in the games held in his home country was a proud moment for Spain and showcased his skills in the sport.

Before becoming the Princess of Monaco, Charlene Wittstock represented South Africa in swimming at the Sydney 2000 Olympics. Competing in the 4×100 metre medley relay, her team finished fifth in the finals. Charlene’s athletic prowess and Olympic experience have contributed to her active involvement in promoting sports and healthy lifestyles as a royal.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Hasher Al Maktoum is a distinguished sports shooter from the Dubai royal family. He won the gold medal in the double trap event at the 2004 Athens Olympics, making history as the first Emirati to win an Olympic gold medal. His victory was a monumental achievement for the UAE, and he also competed in the Sydney 2000 and Beijing 2008 Olympics, further solidifying his legacy in the sport.

Prince Carl Philip represented Sweden in sailing at the Athens 2004 Olympics, competing in the Star class. Like other royal Olympians, he did not win a medal, but his participation underscored the Swedish royal family’s long-standing tradition of competitive sailing.

Zara Tindall, the daughter of Princess Anne, followed in her mother’s footsteps and competed in the equestrian three-day event. Riding her horse, High Kingdom, she helped the British team secure a silver medal. Zara’s performance was lauded for its precision and poise, making her a celebrated Olympic equestrian.