Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg has announced his abdication in 2025

Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg announced in his Christmas speech that he will abdicate in favor of his son Guillaume on October 3, 2025. The statement was published on December 24 on the government's website.

"The year 2024 is coming to an end and Christmas is the perfect time to reflect on the past year. This time I do so with great emotion, as it is the last time I will be giving a Christmas speech as head of state," he said.

The Duke noted his son's preparation for his accession to the throne, noting that the prince has been a lieutenant and state representative since Oct. 8.

Henri expressed gratitude for his 25 years of rule, adding that he believes in the next generation and announced that Guillaume and Princess Stephanie will succeed him on Oct. 3, 2025.

Henri became head of state on October 7, 2000, following the abdication of his father, Grand Duke Jean, (Jean passed away in April 2019). He had previously served as the Duke's representative since March 1998, and has been a member of the International Olympic Committee since February 1998. Duke is actively involved in wildlife conservation, with a particular focus on preserving the unique ecosystem of the Galapagos Islands.