In fact, 2026 may be the year when long-awaited reunions finally happen, or when remaining bridges are permanently burned.
Highs and lows for the Duke of Sussex
From another successful year for the Invictus Games to his departure from Sentebale, the charity he had long supported, 2025 has been a period of mixed fortunes for the Duke of Sussex.
One of the most significant setbacks, however, came when Harry lost his appeal to have his automatic police protection in the UK reinstated.
After stepping back from royal duties in 2020 and relocating to the US, Harry’s full, automatic police protection while visiting Britain was downgraded to a case-by-case arrangement.
Following the court defeat, Harry spoke openly in an interview with the BBC, admitting that the issue had placed serious strain on his relationship with King Charles.
He has repeatedly said that the lack of guaranteed security has limited his ability to attend events in the UK, and that it is the main reason his young children have yet to return to — or even visit — the home of their grandfather.
Reviewing Harry’s UK security
The Duke of Sussex has made clear that he considers time spent in the UK without police protection to be unsafe.
Recent reports suggest that his security arrangements are now under active review. The Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures (Ravec) has reportedly asked its Risk Management Board to reassess Harry’s threat level.
A decision is expected by the end of next month.
Former royal correspondent Jennie Bond has shared her thoughts on what this review could mean for Harry’s future — and for his already fragile relationships within the royal family, particularly with Prince William.
What it means for Harry and William
Speaking to The Mirror, Bond said: “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. It has also been a spanner in the works in his relationship with his father. I think it’s only by coming over and seeing his dad in person from time to time that the rift between them could gradually be mended. Harry could help by making himself available to fit in with his father’s very busy diary and by ensuring that absolutely nothing about any meeting is given to the media.”
While there may be signs of hope for Harry, Bond warned that repairing his bond with Prince William could be far more difficult than rebuilding ties with King Charles.
She added: “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. Harry has said he wants his father and his brother back in his life. But I’m not at all sure that William feels the same about Harry. So I think the younger prince will have to wait some time yet for the ice to thaw. And the truth is that it may never do so.”
Whether Prince Harry will ever be fully welcomed back into the royal fold remains uncertain.
For now, all eyes are on 2026 — and on whether it becomes a year of healing, or one that cements the divide for good.
