King Harald V of Norway Hospitalized in Tenerife

Norway's King Harald V, aged 89, was admitted to Hospital Universitario Hospiten Sur on the Spanish island of Tenerife on February 24, 2026. The royal palace reported that he is being treated for an infection and dehydration while on a private holiday with his wife, Queen Sonja, who is 88 years old. Initial reports indicate that the king is in good condition, although any infection in an individual of his age is considered serious and requires close monitoring.

King Harald of Norway hospitalised overseas with dehydrationHealth fears for King Harald of Norway: monarch, 89, is admitted to hospital while on holiday in TenerifeNorway’s King Harald is in “good” health after being admitted to hospitalHospital stay for Norway’s King Harald extended: doctorNorway’s King Harald admitted to a hospital on the Spanish island of TenerifeUsNews and World ReportDaily Mail

King Harald's personal physician, Dr. Bjørn Bendz, arrived in Tenerife to assist local health services and assess the king's condition. Dr. Bendz noted that the king is responding well to treatment for a skin infection on his leg. He emphasized the importance of thorough monitoring before the king can be discharged, stating, "When people of almost 90 years old are admitted with an infection, it is serious." An update on the king's health is expected to be released following further assessments.

The Independent

King Harald has served as Norway's ceremonial head of state since 1991 and is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe. His recent hospitalization follows a history of health issues, including a previous hospitalization in 2024 for an infection while on holiday in Malaysia, where he received a temporary pacemaker. Despite his health challenges, King Harald has consistently ruled out abdication, affirming his lifelong oath to the Norwegian parliament.

The Straits TimesUsNews and World ReportThe Straits TimesKing Harald of Norway hospitalised overseas with dehydrationReutersDaily MailTown & Country Magazine

The Norwegian royal family is currently facing scrutiny due to controversies involving Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who has been linked to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Recent documents have revealed her past connections with Epstein, which have drawn public criticism. Additionally, Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, is on trial in Oslo facing multiple charges, including rape and assault. These developments have contributed to a decline in public support for the monarchy, which has dropped to 60%, the lowest level recorded.

King Harald of Norway hospitalised overseas with dehydration

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre expressed his wishes for the king's speedy recovery, stating, "I wish our king a speedy recovery." The royal palace has assured the public that updates regarding the king's health will be provided as more information becomes available.

The Straits Times

The ongoing scandals surrounding the royal family have led to a decrease in public support for the monarchy. Critics argue that the controversies involving Crown Princess Mette-Marit and her son have overshadowed the king's legacy and role as a unifying figure in Norway.

The King of Norway is in hospital with an infection: latest updates

• “When people of almost 90 years old are admitted with an infection, it is serious,” — Dr. Bjørn Bendz, Personal Physician

The Independent

• “I wish our king a speedy recovery,” — Jonas Gahr Støre, Prime Minister of Norway

The Straits Times

King Harald's hospitalization comes at a turbulent time for the Norwegian royal family, highlighting both his personal health challenges and the broader issues facing the monarchy.

King Harald of Norway hospitalised overseas with dehydration