Disgraced royal Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor has been treated to a luxury weekend in France, courtesy of a wealthy Dubai businessman, according to a report from the Mail on Sunday. The former prince, who has rarely left the Sandringham estate since his arrest in February, allegedly took a private jet to rural Brittany for an all-expenses-paid trip at the end of May.
Details of the Trip
Andrew was reportedly invited by sportswear billionaire Mohammed A Baker to stay at his acclaimed stud farm near St Malo in north-west France. The former prince travelled from Norwich International Airport to Dinard Airport by private jet on Saturday, May 30, spending three days at the remote stable complex before returning on the evening of Monday, June 1. During his stay, Andrew rode horses on a French beach, played boules in an historic courtyard, and was lavishly entertained with meals prepared by a private chef.
A farm worker told the Mail on Sunday: “The royal man came for a few days. He had a bodyguard with him, just one. Mohammed was in France for a few days and must have invited him to stay. It would have been a relaxing weekend. They rode horses together. They also played boules together in the courtyard. The prince stayed in the house where Mohammed lives. It is a big house and it has lots of bedrooms. And the food and wine when he is your host is of exceptional quality.”
Local Awareness
While the visit was intended to remain under wraps, Andrew’s presence became known to other locals. French racehorse trainer Arthur Desprez, who runs his business near Baker’s farm, confirmed to the Mail on Sunday: “Andrew was the guest of Mohammed Baker. He stayed at his house.”
Mysterious Bruise After Return
Just days after returning from the holiday, Andrew was spotted driving around the Sandringham estate with a large red mark on his face. The bruise stretched from his eye across his right cheek and around his mouth, sparking speculation about its cause. Sources close to the prince reportedly said it was due to a “non-serious medical condition.”
Ongoing Investigation
Andrew has been keeping a low profile since his arrest in February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He spent 11 hours in police custody in Norfolk on his 66th birthday before being released. Thames Valley Police later announced he was under investigation for allegedly sharing confidential information with billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during his time as trade envoy in the early 2000s. In May, the police widened their investigation to include sexual wrongdoing and corruption. Andrew has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. The Mirror has reached out to Andrew’s representatives for comment on the reported trip.
