Prince George’s royal title might not be guaranteed in the future, as Prince William and Kate Middleton could choose to withhold it from him.

The Heir in Waiting

Currently, Prince William is the heir to the throne, but eventually, that role will belong to Prince George. When William becomes King, George is expected to inherit the title of Prince of Wales.

George reportedly became more aware of his destiny following the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Royal historian Marlene Koenig explained to Us Weekly: “Barring any accidents or health issues, George will not be king for some years. He is second in line — as his father is the heir apparent — and his grandfather is the king. The Coronation provided the young prince with the knowledge that he, too, would one day be crowned in a Coronation ceremony. George may be a 12-year-old schoolboy who loves sports, but he is most certainly aware of his future.”

A Different Approach to Titles

Even if George becomes heir earlier than expected, insiders say he may not immediately be given the Prince of Wales title. One source told PEOPLE: “They would want him to focus on having freedom before giving him any royal titles.”

Royal author Robert Lacey added that William likely chooses his words carefully when discussing George’s future. “I imagine that when William talks to George about things like this, he uses words like ‘destiny’ rather than ‘duty.’ ‘Duty’ has a sense of being trapped; ‘destiny’ has a sense of choice.”

George, who recently celebrated his 12th birthday, is currently studying at Lambrook School but is expected to leave in the summer of 2026. While not confirmed, many expect him to follow family tradition and attend Eton College.

Military Training on the Horizon

Former royal butler Grant Harrold, who worked with King Charles III during his years as Prince of Wales, suggested that George may also pursue military training — something often seen as essential for future kings.

When asked if it would be unusual for George or his siblings, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, to skip university, Harrold said:

“I don’t think it would [be frowned upon] these days. We may find that George, Charlotte, and Louis might not all go to university. They may go straight to somewhere like Sandhurst. In particular, George, as it is seen as vital for future kings to have had some sort of military training, so you can guarantee that George, whether he likes it or not, will have to go through that military training. You’re the commanding chief of the Armed Forces, so you’ve got to know the profession.”