Belgian car salesman becomes prince after royal parentage confirmed

Belgian Prince Laurent has officially acknowledged 26-year-old ex-car salesman Clément Vandenkerckhove as his son and heir, a development that has only recently come to light. Six months ago, Vandenkerckhove was quietly integrated into Prince Laurent's family during a town hall ceremony, though the details were kept under wraps. Despite his new status as a prince, he will not be entitled to a royal allowance.

The 26-year-old has had ample time to adjust to his royal lineage and has expressed uncertainty about adopting his father's surname, Saxe-Coburg, stating that he might do so if he feels it is necessary. He emphasized his pride in his family name, Vandenkerckhove, stating that it would be a betrayal of his mother's efforts if he were to abandon it.

Vandenkerckhove, who has been the subject of a Flemish TV documentary, was first introduced to his father in 2013, while he was just 16. His mother revealed his father's identity during this time. Vandenkerckhove eventually contacted his father and after several conversations, his father suggested they undergo a DNA test, which confirmed a 99.5% DNA match.

This situation echoes that of Prince Laurent's father, former King Albert II, who also underwent a DNA test after a paternity dispute.