Prince Andrew has reportedly been urged to stop horse riding amid renewed scrutiny over his past association with Jeffrey Epstein — with royal aides increasingly anxious about how any public images of him might be received.
According to multiple reports, advisers believe it would be deeply unwise for the former Duke of York to be seen enjoying leisure activities while serious questions linked to newly surfaced Epstein-related files remain under review. The concern, sources stress, is not the riding itself — but the optics.
‘The Wrong Message at the Wrong Time’
Horse riding has long been one of Andrew’s favourite pastimes, and before retreating from public life he was often photographed riding around the Windsor estate. Notably, one such outing even took place shortly after he stepped back from royal duties — images that quickly drew criticism.
Now, advisers are determined to avoid a repeat.
A source quoted by The Sun said:
“They don’t think it’s appropriate for him to appear carefree in public right now.
The priority is avoiding anything that could distract from the seriousness of the situation.”
Behind palace walls, the focus is said to be on minimising visibility and preventing photographs that could reignite controversy or inflame public anger.
Police Questions, No Charges — But Pressure Mounts
Andrew was recently questioned by police as part of ongoing assessments connected to allegations referenced in newly uncovered Epstein files. He has firmly denied all wrongdoing, and no charges have been brought against him.
Police have confirmed that reviews related to the Epstein material are continuing, while declining to comment further in order to protect the integrity of the process.
Political Lines Crossed as Criticism Grows
The situation has reignited debate in Westminster, with several MPs breaking long-standing convention this week to publicly criticise a member of the Royal Family — a rare and striking development.
In a brief response following the latest developments, King Charles III stated:
“The law must take its course.”
