French President Emmanuel Macron’s recent visit to Windsor Castle has stirred a lively online debate after footage showed him briefly walking ahead of King Charles III during a ceremonial inspection of the armed forces on July 8.
For some observers, the gesture was a clear breach of royal etiquette. Social media lit up with comments criticizing Macron for what appeared to be a moment of perceived disrespect. “No respect. No class,” one user wrote. Another noted, “You do not walk in front of the monarch! This is not hard stuff.” A handful of others went further, claiming the French president acted intentionally and comparing him unfavorably to previous world leaders accused of similar missteps.
One commenter remarked, “Every time I see Macron I suffer from second-hand embarrassment,” while another quipped, “He truly thinks he’s Napoleon.” Some took an even more serious tone, expressing concern over what they saw as diminishing respect for the British monarch. “That was odd. Macron ignored Charles,” one post read. “Just how much disrespect is our king going to be subjected to?” asked another.
Others, however, saw nothing amiss. “He was talking to the officer, which the King seemed quite happy about,” one person noted. “Stop making something out of nothing.” Another added, “Charles is relaxed and doesn’t care about who walks in front of him.” Defenders argued that the King’s composure suggested he was unbothered, and that protocol today is not as rigid as it once was.
Royal correspondent offers context amid online reaction
In the midst of the back-and-forth, a royal correspondent stepped in to offer some clarity. According to protocol experts, there is flexibility when it comes to ceremonial hosting—especially when foreign heads of state are visiting. “It is perhaps custom,” the correspondent explained, “that the King, as the host, gives way to the visiting head of state, who is the honored guest.”
‘President Trump was heavily criticised for walking in front of the Queen… Now Macron is walking in front of the King.’
Royal Correspondent @CameronDLWalker reports as Emmanuel Macron is invited to inspect troops of the armed forces. pic.twitter.com/Oy09CdWuQG
— GB News (@GBNEWS) July 8, 2025
In that light, Macron’s brief step forward may have been less a breach than a formality—one that reflects diplomatic norms more than disrespect. With the King’s calm demeanor throughout the event, many believe the moment was overblown.
Still, the incident underscores how closely royal engagements are scrutinized, particularly in the age of instant online reaction. Whether intentional or not, even a slight deviation in form can spark global commentary—and reveal how emotionally invested the public remains in royal symbolism.