Beatrice and Eugenie’s Christmas plans shift amid Prince Andrew's spy scandal

Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie will not join the Royal Family at Sandringham Estate for Christmas this year, according to reports.

Instead, the sisters are set to spend the holiday with their husbands' families, marking a departure from their usual tradition.

Their decision comes amid the controversy surrounding their father, Prince Andrew, who has faced allegations of associating with a suspected Chinese spy. 

The scandal has reportedly cast a shadow over the festive celebrations, though insiders suggest the sisters' choice is also motivated by a desire to enjoy Christmas with their in-laws after years of spending the holiday exclusively with the royals.

Princess Beatrice, married to Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, shares a three-year-old daughter, Sienna, with her husband. Edoardo also has an eight-year-old son, Christopher Woolf, from a previous relationship. Meanwhile, Princess Eugenie and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, have two young sons, August and Ernest.

This marks a notable break from tradition for the Princesses of York, who, aside from the COVID-19 pandemic years of 2020 and 2021, have consistently celebrated Christmas with the Royal Family. 

As non-working royals, they maintain strong ties to their family but have begun establishing their own holiday traditions with their growing families.

Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson are also expected to skip the annual Sandringham festivities, including the customary Christmas Day walk to St. Mary Magdalene Church. Sources indicate that the Duke and Duchess of York will likely remain at Royal Lodge.

Reports suggest King Charles did not bar his brother from attending the celebrations but hoped Prince Andrew would voluntarily step back to avoid further scrutiny. 

Allegations have surfaced regarding Andrew's connection to Yang Tengbo, a suspected Chinese spy who reportedly mingled with influential British figures. Yang has denied any wrongdoing or unlawful activity.

This year’s Christmas celebrations at Sandringham will proceed under King Charles’ leadership, marking the second holiday season since the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. The royal festivities are expected to focus on family unity and traditions despite the ongoing controversies surrounding Prince Andrew.