Car salesman becomes Belgian prince after father's recognition

A Belgian man's life has taken an extraordinary turn, transforming from a car salesman into a prince. Clément van den Kerckhove, 26, has been officially recognized by Prince Laurent, the younger brother of King Philippe, as his son. This recognition comes after years of uncertainty for van den Kerckhove, who only learned of his father's identity at the age of 16.

Van den Kerckhove's journey to royal recognition began with a courageous phone call to Prince Laurent four years after discovering his paternity. Their subsequent meetings and a DNA test confirmed their biological link. While he was formally accepted into Prince Laurent's family six months ago at a civil event, the details remained private until recently.

As a prince, van den Kerckhove is now entitled to use the royal title and will inherit a portion of Prince Laurent's estate. However, his new status does not place him in the line of royal succession, nor will he receive any royal allowances. Belgium's 2013 law limits royal stipends to a select few members of the royal family.

Despite his newfound royal status, van den Kerckhove expressed a strong desire to retain his mother's surname, Van den Kerckhove. He stated in an interview with Belgian media, "I am proud of my surname 'Van den Kerckhove.' To give up this surname would be a betrayal of everything my mother has done for me." He admitted that it has taken him years to become accustomed to his royal identity.

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I am proud of my surname 'Van den Kerckhove.' To give up this surname would be a betrayal of everything my mother has done for me.