Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Prince William Cuts Ties With Polo Cup Sponsor Over Cash-for-Access Scheme

The palace has pledged tighter sponsor vetting to safeguard the event’s ethical fundraising.

Image
Britain's Prince William offered up for $27,000 in 'cash for access' scandal.
Image
Image

Overview

  • Minerva Mondejar Steiner sent exclusive invitations through a luxury concierge service offering private audiences with Prince William and Princess Catherine for £20,000 and VVIP packages for £50,000.
  • Kensington Palace moved swiftly after press reports, instructing the Guards Polo Club to end Mondejar Steiner’s sponsorship once it learned of the unsolicited cash-for-access offers.
  • Palace spokespeople publicly disavowed any paid access arrangements and committed to stricter background checks on future donors.
  • Prince William will still participate in the Royal Charity Polo Cup under revised protocols that guarantee no donor pays for private access.
  • The episode highlights longstanding challenges in vetting sponsors at high-profile royal fundraisers and echoes previous cash-for-access controversies.