The Princess of Wales withdrew from this year’s Royal Ascot, sparking public curiosity and speculation as she continues to balance royal duties with her recovery from cancer.
At a Glance
- Kensington Palace confirmed Princess Catherine would not attend Royal Ascot as originally scheduled
- She has been gradually returning to public life after cancer treatment earlier this year
- Catherine recently appeared at Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter service
- Prince William, King Charles, and Queen Camilla attended Royal Ascot without her
- Public reaction was supportive, with many praising her cautious recovery approach
A Thoughtful Withdrawal
Kensington Palace announced that the Princess of Wales would not appear at this year’s Royal Ascot, despite having been listed on the official royal procession. The change prompted Ascot officials to update their seating and carriage arrangements. A palace source told Sky News that the Princess was “disappointed to miss the event” but emphasized that her recovery remains the top priority.
Watch a report: Princess of Wales Withdraws from Royal Ascot.
Recovery and Recent Appearances
Catherine’s absence comes after a highly public battle with cancer. In March, she shared her diagnosis, revealing she began chemotherapy in February. Following a September remission, the Princess described her year as “incredibly tough” in a New York Times interview. Prince William later called 2024 “brutal” for their family.
Despite this, the Princess has resumed select royal duties in recent weeks. She attended London’s Trooping the Colour, the Order of the Garter service, and visited the V&A East Storehouse—each signaling a steady, deliberate return to public life.
The Show Goes On at Ascot
While her absence was felt, Royal Ascot continued with its usual fanfare. King Charles and Queen Camilla led the royal procession, while Prince William appeared alongside pro golfer Justin Rose on Day Two. Notably, Princess Anne’s carriage suffered a mechanical breakdown, briefly delaying the King’s procession, as CNN reported.
Supportive Public Response
Fans and fashion-watchers expressed disappointment over missing Catherine’s signature style, but reactions were overwhelmingly supportive of her health-first decision. Many praised her measured approach to recovery and applauded the palace’s transparency.
Looking Ahead
As the Princess of Wales continues her recovery, royal observers remain hopeful for future appearances at key engagements. Her careful pacing reflects both personal resilience and the royal family’s evolving approach to balancing duty with well-being. Whether at the next grand event or in quieter moments, all eyes remain on her journey back to full strength.
