The King of Spain abdicates

After almost 40 years on the throne, King Juan Carlos of Spain has announced his intention of abdicate. His son, Crown Price Felipe will take over the throne.

At 76 years old, King Juan Carlos has had various health problems in recent years. He was viewed as one of the most popular monarchs in the world and was trusted by almost all Spaniards. However, his reputation started to tumble after a long corruption investigation into the business of his daughter. Even more Spaniards lost confidence in him after Spanish media found out the King took a elephant hunting trip to Botswana in 2012, while the country was hit by financial crisis.

The first information about the abdication was given by Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy. “His Majesty King Juan Carlos has just informed me of his desire to renounce the throne and begin the process of succession,” he said. Later, King Juan Carlos made the announcement. “A new generation must be at the forefront. Young people with new energies,” the 76 year old King said in a televised address.

His son, Crown Prince Felipe will take over. Spain does not have a precise law regulating abdication and succession. However, the transition will likely be made by passing a new lay through the Spanish parliament where Mariano Rajoy's People's Party has majority.

As king, Felipe will be Spain's head of state and he will represent Spain in official visits to foreign countries in business meetings and in different summits. Felipe is married to Leticia Ortiz and has two daughters.