19.06.2025 13:40
The last-minute decision of Princess Kate Middleton not to attend the anticipated Royal Ascot horse races raised concerns. However, palace officials stated that the situation was not health-related and was due to a communication mix-up. Kate has been gradually and carefully returning to public duties since being diagnosed with cancer last year.
The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, drew attention when she withdrew from the Royal Ascot horse races at the last minute, raising some concerns.
However, palace sources stated that this situation was not health-related and was merely due to a mix-up in communication. Officials emphasized that Kate has been gradually and carefully returning to public duties following her cancer diagnosis last year.
Kate's absence led to a minor royal protocol mix-up. It was already known that Prince William would attend the races. In fact, the official procession list published in the morning announced that Prince William and Kate would be in the second carriage after King Charles and Queen Camilla. However, 22 minutes later, the updated list revealed that Kate was not included. The reason for this was cited as "the accidental sharing of an incorrect list."
Subsequently, Prince William rode in the same carriage as King Charles and Queen Camilla. They were also joined by Saudi Prince Saud bin Khalid Al-Saud.
In a statement from the palace, it was noted that Princess Kate was disappointed not to attend the event but that her health was good and she was carefully continuing her schedule. Kate had recently appeared in public for the first time in a long while at the Trooping the Colour ceremony and Garter Day events.
It is worth remembering that the 43-year-old princess underwent abdominal surgery in January and was later diagnosed with cancer. Starting a preventive chemotherapy process, Kate announced earlier this year that she was responding positively to treatment and would gradually return to her duties.
Although Kate could not attend the races, King Charles and Queen Camilla were present on the second day of the event and plan to be at Ascot throughout the week. Queen Camilla wore an emerald green dress, a matching hat, and a brooch belonging to Queen Elizabeth.
Kate's mother, Carole Middleton, also attended the event. She was accompanied by her daughter-in-law Alizée Thevenet (wife of Kate's brother James Middleton). King Charles also welcomed the late Princess Margaret's daughter, Lady Sarah Chatto. Lady Sarah was in the fourth carriage with her husband, artist Daniel Chatto.
Additionally, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester also participated in the procession.
The Royal Ascot procession is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. This tradition, initiated by King George IV in 1825, had become a great passion for Queen Elizabeth. During her 70-year reign, she achieved over 20 victories. However, this year, King Charles's horse, Reaching High, did not win the Ascot Stakes race.