It's time: King Felipe and Queen Letizia make the final decision and issue a statement

After a long and difficult period of reflection, King Felipe and Queen Letizia have made a decision that has undoubtedly marked a turning point in their reign. The monarchs have made this information public through a revealing statement.

This Thursday, June 19, marks 11 years since the former Prince of Asturias was proclaimed King of Spain under the name Felipe VI. Over the past year, the Royal Household has held various commemorative events to celebrate his first decade as monarch alongside Queen Letizia.

As part of this celebration, for the first time since ascending the throne, the monarch has granted noble titles to six prominent figures from our country. According to the official statement, this distinction is awarded to them for their "excellent careers" in various areas of public life.

Through a statement, Felipe VI and Queen Letizia have sought to recognize the careers of the six new nobles, all of whom will be marquises. "They are examples of excellence, whether in service to the Crown or in the fields of thought, culture, science, the arts, and sports," the statement reads.

King Felipe and Queen Letizia Issue a Statement to Announce the Granting of New Noble Titles

Among the new nobles are tennis player Rafa Nadal, who has been named Marquis of Llevant de Mallorca, and singer Luz Casal, now Marchioness of Luz y Paz.

Alongside Nadal and Casal, Jaime Alfonsín Alonso, head of the Royal Household for a decade, has also been recognized and will be Marquis of Alfonsín with Grandeza de España. This is the highest distinction of nobility in Spain.

The list is completed by swimmer Teresa Perales Fernández, who will be Marchioness of Perales; biochemist Carlos López Otín, Marquis of Castillo de Lerés; and photographer Cristina García Rodero, Marchioness of Valle de Alcudia.

In all cases, the title will be hereditary, except for López Otín's, which will be for life. The appointments will take effect after their publication in the Official State Gazette, where the details and conditions of each title granted will be specified.

The Zarzuela has emphasized that these titles are symbolic, can't be sold or bought, and do not entail any economic benefit. In addition, if they are not properly managed, they may revert to the Crown.

With this act, King Felipe and Queen Letizia highlight values such as service, commitment, and duty, as he expressed in his proclamation speech in 2014.

The granting of honors is an exclusive prerogative of Felipe, supported by Article 62.F of the Spanish Constitution. This decision strengthens the bond between the monarchical institution and civil society, recognizing excellence in service to the country.