Prince Harry has endured a turbulent 2025, but royal experts suggest 2026 could be a pivotal year for the Duke of Sussex. The year saw highs such as a successful Invictus Games in Canada and a positive visit to the UK in September, where he reunited with his father, King Charles. However, it also brought setbacks, including his departure from the Sentebale charity after a boardroom dispute and the loss of his court appeal for automatic police protection in the UK.
Following the security ruling, Harry told the BBC that the issue had driven a wedge between him and the King, describing the outcome as a “good old-fashioned stitch up.” However, recent reports indicate that his security arrangements are under review by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec), with a decision expected next month.
Former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the Mirror that a favourable security review could be a turning point. “2026 could turn out to be a very good year for Harry. If his security review goes in his favour, he will feel that an obstacle to visiting the UK more often – and possibly bringing his children here – has been removed,” she said. Bond added that it has also been a “spanner in the works” in his relationship with his father.
Bond suggested that reconciliation with King Charles is possible if Harry makes himself available to fit in with the King’s diary and avoids media leaks. She also recommended an apology to his father and stepmother. However, she was less optimistic about a rapprochement with Prince William, noting that the brothers have not spoken since the Queen’s death. “As for reconciling with William, that’s a much bigger ask,” Bond said.
Looking ahead, Harry will continue his charity work and a new Netflix project with his wife, Meghan Markle. Their production company, Archewell Productions, is adapting the novel The Wedding Date by Jasmine Guillory. Bond advised Harry to “play to his strengths” in charity work, where he is “incredibly good,” rather than film production.
