Buckingham Palace announced in an official statement on Friday, Oct. 17, 2025, that Prince Andrew, Duke of York and brother of King Charles III, has formally decided to relinquish the title of Duke of York and all British royal honors previously conferred upon him.

This decision follows "discussions within the royal family" and comes amid growing pressure related to the ongoing repercussions of his association with the late American businessman Jeffrey Epstein, who was convicted of sexual crimes.

Details of the Relinquishment and Stated Reasons

The statement noted that Prince Andrew, who withdrew from public life five years ago, emphasized that his new decision was made to prioritize “his duty to my family and my country”, adding that “the ongoing allegations against me” have distracted from the work of King Charles III and the royal institution.

Prince Andrew also stated that he will no longer use his title or the honors granted to him, while firmly denying all allegations against him.

The palace confirmed that the decision is effective immediately and has full approval from King Charles III, who praised his brother’s step as a demonstration of responsibility.

Despite relinquishing the dukedom and royal honors, he will retain the title of “Prince” as a son of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Epstein Case Fallout and Pressure on the Palace

Observers consider this relinquishment as the latest chapter in Prince Andrew’s declining standing within the royal family.

The move comes at a sensitive time with ongoing media reports concerning the Epstein case, as well as reports linking him to a business associate suspected of spying for China.

Royal sources confirmed that King Charles III supports the decision to protect the reputation of the monarchy and ensure transparency in the roles of family members, effectively ending Prince Andrew’s role as a prominent public figure in the UK.

It is expected that his former wife, Sarah Ferguson, will cease using the title Duchess of York as well, while their daughters, Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, will retain their royal titles.