Sarah Ferguson, previously known as the Duchess of York, is set to lose her courtesy royal divorcee title, reverting to her maiden name, Ferguson. This development follows her ex-husband, Prince Andrew, Duke of York, relinquishing his own titles and honours amidst escalating pressure.

Prince Andrew's decision was made after discussions with King Charles and Prince William, prompted by continuous controversy surrounding his association with the monarchy. This includes renewed scrutiny over the Epstein scandal and allegations of contact with an alleged Chinese spy. The King is reportedly "glad" about the outcome, which sees his younger brother step further away from his former royal roles, having previously stepped down from public life five years ago.

In a statement released via Buckingham Palace, Prince Andrew articulated his reasoning: “In discussion with the King, and my immediate and wider family, we have concluded the continued accusations about me distract from the work of His Majesty and the Royal Family.” He further stated, “With His Majesty’s agreement, we feel I must now go a step further. I will therefore no longer use my title or the honours which have been conferred upon me. I have decided, as I always have, to put my duty to my family and country first.”

Despite their divorce over 30 years ago, Sarah Ferguson, 66, has remained a steadfast supporter of Prince Andrew, continuing to reside with him at Royal Lodge. Insiders suggest that she is reportedly relaxed about losing her title, believing it will not significantly impact her life. A source speaking with Hello! Magazine indicated her unwavering support: "She will always support her former husband's decisions and do anything for the King. For her, this will not make a big difference.”

However, Ferguson herself has recently faced controversy. She was reportedly dropped by multiple charities last month following reports of an email exchange with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, where she allegedly expressed regret for publicly disowning him and hailed him as a "supreme friend."

Prince Andrew's relinquishment of his dukedom is a historically significant event, believed to be the first instance of a senior royal ceasing to use such a title in over a century. The last known occurrence was during the First World War when Queen Victoria's grandson, the Duke of Albany, was stripped of his title under the Titles Deprivation Act 1917 for siding with Germany.

It is important to note that while Andrew will no longer use his titles and honours, he will remain a prince, a title he holds by birthright as the son of the late Queen Elizabeth II. He also retains his position as eighth in the line of succession. This change will not affect his daughters, who will continue to be known as Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.