Duchess of York's summit plans clash with Prince Louis' birthday celebrations
Sarah Ferguson has raised eyebrows with a new public engagement that coincides with an important day for the Prince and Princess of Wales, prompting concern within royal circles.
The Duchess of York, who continues to reside at the Royal Lodge with her former husband Prince Andrew, revealed she will be speaking at the Ideas + Leaders Summit in London on April 23, 2025 — the same day Prince William and Catherine are expected to celebrate their son Prince Louis’ seventh birthday.
Her announcement comes amid growing tension between Prince Andrew and King Charles over the future of the Royal Lodge, further amplifying the significance of the timing.
Ferguson, affectionately known as Fergie, promoted the summit on her Instagram story, calling it “an exclusive 1-day leadership experience” that will gather “global visionaries, innovators, and decision-makers ready to redefine the future of leadership and business.”
Meanwhile, William and Catherine are preparing to mark Louis' birthday in what is expected to be a joyful family occasion. Last year, the family faced a difficult period due to Princess Catherine’s cancer diagnosis, but still honoured the day with a sweet photo of Louis taken by the Princess herself.
As royal watchers await this year’s birthday portrait, Ferguson’s overlapping plans have drawn quiet concern, with some seeing the scheduling as unfortunate given the current climate within the Royal Family.
