Crown Prince Frederik and Crown Princess Mary learned about Queen Margrethe's abdication three days before the official announcement, it has been claimed.
According to the Danish website Berlingske, Queen Margrethe kept her abdication a secret from her eldest son and her younger child, Prince Joachim.
The Royal House subsequently confirmed the reports to the publication.
Frederik and Mary learned about Queen Margrethe's abdication three days before announcement
Reuters
The Danish Queen, 83, made the announcement during her annual New Year's Eve speech.
Margrethe said: "In 14 days, I will have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years.
"Such long time does not pass without a trace for any human being - not even me.
"Time goes on, and the 'diseases' increase. You no longer cope with the same things as you once could.
Queen Margrethe is formally abdicating the throne on January 14
Reuters
"In February this year, I underwent extensive back surgery.
"It went well, thanks to the skilled healthcare staff who took care of me.
"Of course, the operation also gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation."
The Danish Queen added: "I have decided that now is the right time. On January 14, 2024, 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father, I will step down as Queen of Denmark.
Princess Mary and Prince Frederik will be Denmark's next King and Queen
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Queen Margrethe II of Denmark announced her abdication in her New Year's speechReuters"I leave the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik. Tonight, first of all, I want to say thank you. Thank you for the overwhelming warmth and support that I have received over the years.
"A thank you to the changing governments, with whom it has always been rewarding to work together, and to the Danish Parliament, which has always met me with confidence.
"My thanks must go to all the many, many people who, at special events, as well as in everyday life, have surrounded me and my family with loving words and thoughts.
"It has made these years a series of gems. The support and assistance that I have received over the years has been decisive for me being able to carry out my task.
"It is my hope that the new royal couple will be met with the same trust and affection that I have received. They deserve it! Denmark deserves it!"