Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are understood to have enlisted a hedge fund billionaire to help them move back to the UK. Ian Wace, founding partner of Marshall Wace LLP, is said to be financing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex's move back to this country, Page 6 reports.
Close ties with the financier
According to the publication, the royals have a very close relationship with the 63-year-old financier, visiting his private Scottish island, called Tanera Mò, in July. Additionally, Markle enjoys a close relationship with Wace's former wife, ex-model Saffron Aldridge. Despite the pair's separation in 2023 and subsequent divorce, they continue to maintain amicable relations.
In 2019, the quartet enjoyed a couples' evening out at the 2019 Cirque du Soleil show at Royal Albert Hall, with The Sun revealing that Aldridge assisted Markle in navigating British high society and even offered style guidance following her marriage to Harry. The former Ralph Lauren model boasts impressive connections beyond royal circles, as her half-sister is Victoria's Secret Angel Lily Aldridge, who is wed to Kings of Leon frontman Caleb Followill.
A surprise return to the UK
Harry and Meghan stunned the world this month when it emerged they are plotting a surprise return to the United Kingdom, establishing a private residence after six years living in California. The sudden relocation, which will be to a non-royal property reportedly outside London, marks a major new phase for the family but won't include resuming official royal responsibilities.
The choice followed a discreet family visit to England, which apparently served as a turning point for reconciliation. Prince Harry allegedly wants to be closer to his relatives, especially his father, King Charles III, who is fighting cancer. The King was informed of the arrangements and reportedly anticipates spending more time with his grandchildren.
Schooling and expert caution
With their children nearing school age, the couple have also chosen to put down roots for their primary schooling in the UK. Nevertheless, one relationship expert has cautioned that Prince Harry and Meghan must proceed carefully to ensure the move doesn't “expose any cracks” in their marriage.
