Andrew and Ferguson Relinquish York Titles

Prince Andrew and Sarah, Duchess of York, have relinquished the Duke and Duchess of York titles amid renewed scrutiny of their ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, amplified by the release of Virginia Giuffre’s memoir and reporting on previously unseen emails allegedly showing Epstein financially supported Sarah Ferguson. Buckingham Palace and the couple have removed use of the York titles from official social channels, and Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie will retain their royal status while withdrawing from recent high‑profile events. Beatrice was photographed visiting Royal Lodge while Eugenie has stayed largely out of public view, prompting commentators to say the sisters face a “big test” over family unity and future roles. Scotland Yard is reported to be probing claims that Andrew sought to have a protection officer dig up information on accuser Virginia Giuffre; Andrew has denied the allegations. Royal commentators and a veteran photographer have defended the princesses as blameless, but experts say the revelations have intensified scrutiny of the York family and could affect their public duties. King Charles has moved to distance the wider royal family from Andrew and Ferguson as the fallout continues.