Prince Albert of Monaco is expected to recognize his illegitimate child, Le Monde reported.
A statement from Monaco's royal palace was expected Wednesday, the newspaper wrote that would recognizing Albert's reputed son, 22-month-old Alexandre.
Reports of Alexandre's existence -- and Albert's liaison with Togolese stewardess Nicole Coste -- was tabloid fodder last spring. In late June, the Monaco's ruler won a libel suit against Paris Match magazine for a 10-page spread on the story.
According to Le Monde, Wednesday's statement is expected to say the boy's birth will not change the order of succession, nor the functioning of the principality.
Albert became Monaco's ruler in April following the death of his father, Prince Rainier.
© Copyright 2005 by United Press International
