Speculation is mounting within royal circles as to who will be chosen as godfather to baby Cosima Florence Grosvenor, the newborn daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Westminster. The question arises amid reports that Prince William could be in line for the honor, potentially edging out his younger brother, Prince Harry.
A new chapter for the Grosvenor family
Hugh Grosvenor, the 7th Duke of Westminster, and his wife Olivia welcomed their first child, Cosima Florence, on July 27. The couple confirmed the happy news in a statement expressing their joy and gratitude, noting that both mother and baby are doing well.
The Grosvenor family has longstanding ties to the British royal family. Hugh, a billionaire landowner and godson to King Charles III, has been close friends with both William and Harry since childhood. His close relationship with the royal family was highlighted last year when Prince William served as an usher at his wedding to Olivia Henson at Chester Cathedral.
Why William might be favored
William’s presence at the Grosvenor wedding, along with his ongoing public appearances with the couple, including attending a Champions League match together earlier this year, has fueled speculation that he could be named baby Cosima’s godfather.
Prince Harry, who maintains a more private life in California, was invited to the wedding but agreed with Grosvenor not to attend, reportedly to avoid media tension amid his strained relationship with his brother. While Harry remains close to the Duke on a personal level—Grosvenor is said to be godfather to Harry’s son, Prince Archie—his absence from recent events may influence the final decision.
The decision remains private
At this point, no official announcement has been made. It is entirely possible that neither of the brothers will take on the godparent role, leaving the decision solely in the hands of the Duke and Duchess of Westminster.
Hugh Grosvenor, one of the wealthiest men in the UK under 40, continues to play a significant role in both business and philanthropy. Beyond his personal life, he oversees the vast Grosvenor Estate, with holdings in London’s Mayfair and Belgravia, as well as international investments. Known for his generosity, he notably donated £12.5 million to the UK’s Covid-19 relief efforts in 2020.
For now, royal watchers can only wait to see who will be chosen for this special role in baby Cosima’s life.