In a surprising turn of events, Nacho Figueras, a close friend of Prince Harry, has reportedly severed ties with the Duke of Sussex.
This fallout allegedly stems from Meghan Markle‘s influence on Harry, particularly concerning the sale of two expensive polo ponies, which has led to significant financial losses.
The staggering amount?
A whopping $4 million.
But what’s really behind this rift?
While it might seem trivial to part ways over some horses, the situation hints at deeper issues.
Maintaining high-end polo ponies, known as Po’o Ponies, comes with hefty costs—around $190,000 per horse.
Their upkeep, especially the hay expenses, can be astronomical.
Given the Sussexes’ rumored financial struggles since stepping back from royal duties, this could be more than just a simple disagreement about equine companions.
Despite allegations of monetary woes, the couple appears to have made a substantial real estate investment.
They recently acquired a lavish estate in Montecito for $14.65 million in an off-market deal that closed in June.
This purchase raises eyebrows, especially when coupled with reports of their private jet expenditures and Meghan’s extravagant fashion choices, which recently included over $121,000 worth of new clothing.
Harry’s passion for polo, combined with the financial burden of maintaining those pricey ponies, may have contributed to Figueras’s decision to distance himself.
The two met through their shared love for polo and charitable endeavors, specifically when Harry became an ambassador for Sentebale in 2007, an organization focused on helping children affected by HIV.
The absence of Harry at Figueras’s recent birthday party in March, along with his exclusion from New Year’s celebrations with Chris Martin, suggests a growing divide.
Months have passed without any sighting of the two friends on the polo field, further fueling speculation about their relationship.
Financial strains appear to be a significant factor.
Reports indicate that Harry’s spending on Meghan’s beauty and lifestyle may have left him unable to afford the high costs associated with polo pony care.
In fact, a royal fashion blog highlighted that Meghan spent an astonishing $500,000 on her wardrobe in 2018, dwarfing Kate Middleton‘s expenditures.
Meanwhile, Harry has faced criticism for his treatment of horses, particularly following the tragic death of Drizzle, a pony used for polo.
Witnesses claimed he was unaware of Drizzle’s distress until it was too late, leading to accusations of neglect.
Furthermore, Harry has been scrutinized for wearing spurs during matches, which can injure horses, raising questions about his commitment to their welfare.
Allegations of theft have also surfaced, with claims that Harry took two of Nacho’s horses.
Considering the high costs associated with polo ponies—around £200,000 each—the financial implications of such accusations are severe.
With maintenance costs adding up to about £180,000 a year, it becomes clear why the Sussexes might be feeling the pinch.
Prince Charles has reportedly grown weary of Harry’s frequent calls asking for financial assistance.
In a candid interview with Oprah, Harry revealed that he had been financially cut off from his family, relying solely on what his late mother left him to support his current lifestyle.
The dynamic between Harry and Meghan seems to be a complex web of love, loyalty, and financial strain.
Observers have noted that the couple appears to be two sides of the same coin, with each reflecting the other’s ambitions and challenges.
As we ponder the reasons behind the split between Figueras and Harry, many are left wondering if Meghan’s influence played a pivotal role.
What other factors might have contributed to this falling out?
The intrigue surrounding this story continues to grow, leaving fans and followers eager for more insights into the lives of the Sussexes.
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