French President Emmanuel Macron’s behavior during his state visit to the UK has sparked online controversy. Was it disrespectful to King Charles III, or are people overreacting? Find out the details.
Emmanuel Macron’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom has sparked a wave of online reactions after an incident at Windsor Castle. Critics have accused the French President of disrespecting royal protocol by walking in front of King Charles III during an official event, leading to a heated debate online. Some argue that Macron’s behavior was a deliberate breach of tradition, while others believe the situation has been blown out of proportion.
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1. The Controversial Moment
On July 8, 2025, during a ceremony at Windsor Castle, President Macron was welcomed to inspect the armed forces. However, as the event unfolded, many onlookers noticed that the French President appeared to step ahead of King Charles, which some saw as a violation of royal protocol. According to Great Britain News, “President Trump was heavily criticized for walking in front of the Queen… Now Macron is walking in front of the King.”
The moment quickly ignited social media, with many commenting on what they perceived as a breach of respect. One user wrote, “No respect. No class.” Another added, “And conversing with the King’s Guard, as though the King was not even there! Unbelievable.” Many took issue with Macron’s actions, insisting that no one should walk in front of the monarch.
‘President Trump was heavily criticised for walking in front of the Queen… Now Macron is walking in front of the King.’
Royal Correspondent @CameronDLWalker reports as Emmanuel Macron is invited to inspect troops of the armed forces. pic.twitter.com/Oy09CdWuQG
— GB News (@GBNEWS) July 8, 2025
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2. The Mixed Online Reactions
The reactions were split, with some defending Macron’s actions. A few netizens suggested that the French President was simply speaking to an officer and that King Charles didn’t appear to mind. One commenter argued, “But he was talking to the officer which the King seemed quite happy for him to do. Stop making something out of nothing.” Others went further to defend the behavior, with one writing, “King Charles is relaxed and doesn’t care about who walks in front of him ❤️.”
Awkward moment Brigitte Macron breaks Royal protocol as she tries to hold Queen Camilla’s hand at D-Day memorial in Normandy#Macron #DDay #Camilla #Royals pic.twitter.com/Qi3h66iYee
— Daily Mail (@DailyMail) June 6, 2024
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However, there were those who still expressed shock at the President’s actions. One user shared, “You do not walk in front of the monarch! This is not hard stuff people!” Another commented, “Politicians like Macron only break royal protocol on purpose. Being rude to your hosts isn’t nice whether they’re royal or not.”
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3. A Royal Correspondent’s Clarification
In response to the outcry, a royal correspondent provided some clarity on the situation. According to the expert, the King, as the host, likely gave way to the foreign head of state, as it is common practice for the honored guest to have precedence during such events. This explanation helped to calm some of the online uproar, but the controversy continued to simmer, highlighting the tensions between ceremonial tradition and diplomatic interactions.
4. Additional Protocol Controversies
This wasn’t the first time the French delegation had sparked controversy during a royal visit. Back in June 2024, Brigitte Macron, France’s First Lady, created a stir when she broke royal protocol by attempting to hold Queen Camilla’s hand during a D-Day memorial in Normandy.
During this most recent visit, another moment caused waves. Emmanuel Macron and King Charles were caught in a lighthearted conversation in which Macron made a joke about Prince William’s height. The remark, later analyzed by lip readers, showed Macron saying, “He is incredibly tall,” with Charles confirming that William was 6’1”. Prince William then humorously corrected them, stating, “Actually, I’m six foot three.”
5. The Bigger Picture: A Symbolic Visit
Despite the controversies, the visit was a diplomatic milestone. Macron became the first European leader to make a state visit to the UK since King Charles’s coronation and the country’s exit from the European Union. The procession through Windsor Castle, accompanied by the French national anthem, was a symbolic gesture aimed at strengthening Franco-British relations.
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Additionally, during the visit, a heartfelt exchange took place between Brigitte Macron and Princess Catherine of Wales. Brigitte complimented Catherine, who has recently been open about her health journey following her cancer diagnosis. Brigitte’s words, “Oh, so good to see you, you look great,” carried more significance considering Catherine’s recent remission.
Conclusion
Emmanuel Macron’s actions during his state visit to the UK have sparked a divide in public opinion, with some condemning his behavior as disrespectful, while others feel the controversy is overblown. The incident highlights the complexity of royal protocol and the varying interpretations of diplomatic gestures. As discussions continue, it remains clear that such moments are closely watched and interpreted by the public, offering insight into the delicate balance between diplomacy, tradition, and personal interactions.
