Can a Car Salesman Become a Prince? Inside the Belgian Royal Recognition of Clément Vandenkerckhove
Belgian car salesman Clément Vandenkerckhove is officially recognised as a prince – what the title means and why he receives no royal allowance.
Royal Recognition for a Belgian Car Salesman
In a story that reads like a modern‑day fairy tale, a 26‑year‑old car dealer from Belgium has been officially granted the title of prince after his father, a member of the Belgian royal family, legally acknowledged him. The unusual blend of the motor trade and monarchy has quickly become a talking point across Europe and the United Kingdom.
Who Is Prince Laurent?
Prince Laurent is the younger brother of King Philippe, the current monarch of Belgium. He married Princess Claire in 2003, but prior to that marriage he was in a long‑term relationship with Belgian singer Wendy Van Wanten, whose birth name is Iris Vandenkerckhove. The relationship produced a son, Clément Vandenkerckhove, who later entered the motor‑trade sector as a car salesman.
How the Paternity Was Confirmed
Clément first learned of his royal lineage at the age of 16. After contacting Prince Laurent, the two arranged a DNA test that returned a 99.5 % match, confirming the prince’s paternity. The result prompted a formal ceremony held in a Belgian town hall about six months ago, during which Prince Laurent officially recognised Clément as his son.
What the Title Means – and What It Does Not Mean
Following the ceremony, Clément Vandenkerckhove was granted the courtesy title of Prince. However, the recognition comes with clear limits. He will not receive a public allowance from the royal household, nor will he be required to take part in official royal engagements. Moreover, he remains outside the line of succession to the Belgian throne, meaning that the country’s first‑ever "car‑dealer monarch" is still a concept rather than a reality.
Family Background and Personal Choice
Clément’s mother, Wendy Van Wanten, is a recognised figure in the Belgian music scene. Although the prince’s surname – Saxe‑Coburg – could now be added to Clément’s name, he has chosen to retain his family name for the time being. In an interview with the Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad, he explained his decision:
“I might want to do that, but I am proud of the name Vandenkerckhove. If I were to sacrifice that family name, it would be a betrayal of everything my mother has done for me.”
Implications for the Belgian Royal Family
The acknowledgement does not alter the structure of the Belgian monarchy. Prince Laurent’s acknowledgment of his son does not confer any constitutional rights or financial benefits, and the prince’s official duties and titles remain unchanged. The move simply adds another recognised member to the extended royal family, highlighting the personal side of a house that is otherwise known for its public duties.
Why This Story Matters to the Motor Trade
For the UK motor‑trade community, the story offers a reminder that the world of car sales can intersect with unexpected realms of public interest. While the title carries no monetary advantage for Clément, the media attention underscores how personal narratives can elevate the profile of everyday professionals, even those behind a dealership desk.
As the story continues to circulate, industry watchers will be keen to see whether the newfound royal connection influences Clément’s future within the car‑selling industry, or whether he will choose a different path altogether.