Prince Harry is entering what experts describe as a 'make-or-break' year in 2026, with a crucial security decision and the fragile hope of healing the bitter rift within the Royal Family hanging in the balance.
A Rollercoaster 2025 Sets the Stage
The Duke of Sussex experienced a tumultuous 2025 marked by significant highs and lows. The year saw the success of the Invictus Games in Canada and a September trip to the UK that culminated in a long-awaited reunion with his father, King Charles.
However, the year also delivered brutal setbacks. Harry was involved in an ugly boardroom spat that led him to resign as patron of his Sentebale charity. Furthermore, he lost a Court of Appeal case aiming to reinstate his automatic police protection while in the UK.
Following this legal defeat, Harry gave a candid BBC interview, claiming the security issue had driven a wedge between him and the King. He alleged his father refused to discuss the matter, labelling the court's decision a 'good old-fashioned stitch up'.
The Pivotal Security Review
Recent developments, however, suggest a potential turning point. The Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (RAVEC) has instructed its Risk Management Board to reassess Harry's threat level. A final decision on his security arrangements in the UK is expected next month.
Royal expert Jennie Bond, a former BBC royal correspondent, believes this review could be transformative. She stated: '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.'
Bond emphasised that this issue has been a 'spanner in the works' for his relationship with King Charles, suggesting that regular, private in-person visits are essential for gradual reconciliation.
A Glimmer of Hope with Charles, But William Remains Distant
While a path to mending ties with his father may be emerging, the prospect of reconciliation with his brother, the Prince of Wales, appears far slimmer. The brothers are not believed to have spoken since the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
Jennie Bond offered a stark assessment: 'As for reconciling with William, that’s a much bigger ask. A parent can forgive a child far more readily than siblings tend to reconcile... I’m not at all sure that William feels the same about Harry.' She concluded that the ice between the brothers may 'never' thaw.
Looking Ahead: Charity Work and Netflix Projects
As 2026 unfolds, Prince Harry is expected to continue his dedicated charity work, an area where Bond notes he remains 'incredibly good at it' and very popular. Alongside Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex, he will also advance new projects with Netflix under their Archewell Productions banner, including an adaptation of 'The Wedding Date' by Jasmine Guillory.
Bond's final advice to the Duke was to 'play to his strengths', focusing on his charitable platform and the causes he champions, suggesting this is where his true comfort and impact lie.
