Archive · 21 Aug 2026
Belgium’s Prince Laurent Legally Recognises Son After 26 Years
Prince Laurent of Belgium has officially recognised Clement Vandenkerckhove as his son.
Clement is 26 years old and was previously known as the son of singer Wendy Van Wanten.
Laurent and Clement’s relationship had been uncertain for more than two decades.
Laurent publicly said he was Clement’s biological father in September 2025.
A DNA test reportedly showed a 99.5% match between them.
A private ceremony later gave Clement legal status within the royal family.
Clement may inherit from Laurent’s personal estate.
However, he cannot become king because he is not in the line of succession.
He also will not receive public money or carry out royal duties.
Prince Laurent has legally recognised 26-year-old Clement Vandenkerckhove as his son.
The recognition reportedly took place during a discreet civil ceremony about six months before becoming public.
Laurent publicly acknowledged his paternity in September 2025 after a DNA test reportedly showed a 99.5% match.
Clement can inherit from Laurent’s private estate alongside his three half-siblings.
He will not receive a state allowance, perform official royal duties or enter Belgium’s line of succession.
- Who
- Prince Laurent, the younger brother of King Philippe, and Clement Vandenkerckhove, the 26-year-old son he has recognised.
- What
- Prince Laurent legally recognised Clement Vandenkerckhove as his son and gave him the title of Prince of Belgium.
- When
- The civil ceremony reportedly took place about six months before the news emerged; Laurent publicly acknowledged Clement in September 2025.
- Where
- The recognition reportedly occurred during a discreet civil ceremony in Belgium.
- Why
- The legal recognition establishes Laurent and Clement’s family relationship and gives Clement inheritance rights to Laurent’s private estate, but not succession rights or public royal benefits.
- Recognised son
- Clement Vandenkerckhove
- Father
- Prince Laurent of Belgium
- Age
- 26
- Reported DNA match
- 99.5%
- Inheritance
- Eligible to inherit from Prince Laurent’s private estate alongside Princess Louise, Prince Nicolas and Prince Aymeric
- Royal duties
- None expected
- Public allowance
- Not available
- Succession
- Not in line for the Belgian throne