A new king and a legend

Kings of old were the stuff of legend, writing their deeds in the history books for all to see and talk about for years to come.  Modern royalty isn't quite so poetic at times but less than three weeks after it started, the reign of Felipe VI has embraced a legend in Spain.  The new king has led the Royal Household in paying its respects to a legendary footballer.  Alfredo di Stefano was part of the fabric of Spanish life  and now the country's new monarch has joined his mourners.

Felipe VI pays his tributes to Alfredo di Stefano

(photo Real Madrid)

The new king went to the palace of the old king by visiting the Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid where the coffin of Alfredo di Stefano has been taken for fans - royal and non royal - to pay their final respects.  Felipe was met by the President of Real Madrid, Florentino Perez, and then went on to meet the family of Alfredo di Stefano, who died on July 7th 2014 at the age of 88.  

King Felipe of Spain signs the book of condolence for Alfredo di Stefano

Alfredo di Stefano was one of the most famous and widely respected football players in the history of the game and regarded by many as one of its greatest ever stars.  He helped Real Madrid win five European Cups in a row between 1956 and 1960 and scored in the final each time.  Much loved in his adopted country of Spain - he was born in Argentina - his death has been widely mourned.  King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia have also sent telegrams of condolence to his family and King Felipe and Queen Letizia sent their condolences as soon as they heard the news while on a visit to Portugal.  Felipe VI described Alfredo di Stefano as a 'great among greats'.  The newest king in Europe and a legend.