Royals at the Olympic Games: The best moments in pictures
Royals often make appearances at major sporting events, but you might be surprised to know just how many have sentimental ties to the Olympic Games – be it due to experience as a competitor, or personal milestones that have taken place on the sidelines.
As the world prepares for Paris 2024, have a scroll through to see the best royal moments from the Olympics through the years.
King Felipe of Spain
Back in 1992, long before he sat on the throne of Spain, King Felipe represented his country at the Barcelona Olympics.
The young Prince Felipe was part of Spain's sailing team, which came sixth in the Games, and was the flag bearer at the Opening Ceremony.
Queen Elizabeth II
The late Queen Elizabeth II may not have competed in an Olympics, but she certainly scored a starring role in the 2012 London Opening Ceremony.
Her Majesty's arrival at the event was heralded by a pre-recorded skit, depicting her 'parachuting' into the stadium with James Bond (Daniel Craig).
Directed by Danny Boyle, the video depicted Bond collecting the monarch from Buckingham Palace where, to the delight of fans, she greeted him with: "Good evening, Mr Bond."
And yes, the corgis made an appearance too.
Princess Anne
Princess Anne has the honour of being the first member of the British royal family to compete at the Olympics.
The daughter of Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip represented Great Britain in the three-day event at the 1976 Games in Montreal (pictured), riding her mother's horse Goodwill.
Princess Anne
Her former husband Mark Phillips has also competed in the Olympics, winning gold with the British equestrian team in 1972.
Anne is now part of the International Olympic Committee, and was in the organising committee for the 2012 summer Olympics in London.
Princess Anne presents Zara with her medal
In something of a 'full circle' moment, Zara was presented her silver medal by her mother.
She was cheered on from the sidelines by Queen Camilla, Prince William, Prince Harry and Kate Middleton.
Queen Mary and King Frederik of Denmark
A royal love story for the ages was born during the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
On that fateful night, Denmark's Prince Frederik was out for drinks with his brother Prince Joachim, his cousin Prince Nikolaos of Greece, and Princess Martha Louise of Norway at the Slip Inn bar.
The group eventually caught up with Prince Felipe of Spain, who happened to be acquainted with a friend of Mary Donaldson, a real estate agent from Tasmania.
The pair hit it off, though Mary didn't realise the man she was talking to was royalty.
Twenty-four years later, Mary and Frederik are married with four children, and the King and Queen of Denmark.
Princess Charlene of Monaco
Monaco's royal couple is big on sport.
Prince Albert's wife Princess Charlene (nee Charlene Wittstock) is a fellow Olympian, having competed in swimming.
She represented South Africa in the 2000 Sydney Olympics, and planned to compete at the 2008 games but did not qualify.
Prince Monaco and Princess Charlene make their debut
The Olympics have added significance for Albert and Charlene, as they went public with their relationship at the 2006 winter Games in Torino.
The couple, who met at a swimming meet, appeared very cosy as they enjoyed the Opening Ceremony.
King Harald of Norway
Norway's reigning monarch also happens to be a three-time Olympian.
King Harald, pictured here at the 2010 Winter Olympics, represented his country in sailing at the 1964, 1968, and 1972 games. He was also flagbearer in 1964.
In 1994, the King also had the honour of opening the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer.
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