Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have once again found themselves at the center of reported royal-watch speculation as talk of a possible UK return resurfaces. While alleged rumors continue to circulate online, a royal expert suggests the real challenge facing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex has more to do with logistics, security, and long-term priorities than relationship trouble. After stepping back as working royals in 2020, the couple built a life in California. They share two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
Prince Harry and Megan Markle to face ‘huge test’ as a couple amid UK return, warns expert
According to a Mirror.co.uk report dated January 13, 2026, commentator Richard Fitzwilliams called a joint UK visit a “huge test.” The report tied the tension to their solo activities. Instead, it framed the issue as priorities pulling in different directions. Fitzwilliams said, “If Harry is keen to come to a country – and to bring his children to a country – that Meghan doesn’t want to appear in, it’s only going to exacerbate any difficulties between them.”
Meanwhile, the practical hinge is police protection. The Guardian reported Prince Harry is seeking a Home Office review after losing a UK security challenge. The outlet said the Duke wants a full risk assessment of his family’s protection. So, any reported return becomes a couple’s issue quickly, not just a diary slot. Fitzwilliams also warned, “Her coming back could be a complete catastrophe, depending on how they managed it.”
However, the recent pattern has been more separate calendars than joint travel. Prince Harry traveled to Colorado for the St. Regis World Snow Polo Championship. At the same time, Meghan stayed in Montecito with the kids.
Despite ongoing speculation, Fitzwilliams dismissed alleged claims of an imminent split. He said, “I believe it would take an earthquake of an event for them to divorce. Aside from anything else the loss of face, after everything they have done and said, and how they have distanced themselves from the other members of their family, would be huge.”