Prince Frederik of Luxembourg, the youngest son of Prince Robert of Luxembourg and Princess Julie of Nassau, passed away on March 1, 2025, in Paris at the age of 22 due to POLG, a rare genetic disease. POLG disease, caused by mutations in the POLG gene crucial for cell DNA repair and replication, is challenging to diagnose because of its various symptoms and low awareness levels. Frederik had been diagnosed with POLG at 14, a condition that affects approximately 1 in 10,000 individuals globally.
Frederik had co-founded the POLG Foundation in 2022 and had been the organization's creative director. Prince Robert announced Frederik's passing on March 7 through a statement on the foundation's website. Prior to his death, Frederik had gathered his family in his room on February 28 to have a conversation. His last question to his father was, "Papa, are you proud of me?" Prince Robert described Frederik as a valiant fighter who battled the disease until the end, mentioning that "Part of his superpower was his ability to inspire and to lead by example."
Prince Robert expressed his deep emotions in the statement, writing, "Frederik knows that he is my Superhero. Our cheery Frederik saw the beauty in everything." He remembered Frederik for his strength, spirit, and advocacy, stating, "His indomitable lust for life propelled him through the hardest of physical and mental challenges." POLG affects multiple organs, including the brain, muscles, and liver, and currently has no cure.
