Catherine, Princess of Wales, will not be attending this year’s Royal Ascot as she continues her recovery from cancer, Kensington Palace confirmed on Wednesday.
The Royal Ascot, held in Berkshire, is a key fixture in the British royal calendar, traditionally attended by members of the royal family. However, the 43-year-old princess—also known as Kate—has opted to skip the event to focus on her ongoing recovery.
According to the Press Association, Catherine is still working to “find the right balance” following her cancer treatment. She began a preventative chemotherapy regimen in March 2024 for an undisclosed type of cancer, and in September that year, she announced she was cancer-free. Despite being in remission, she continues to take cautious steps in returning to public life.
Though disappointed to miss the prestigious five-day event, Catherine recently resumed some royal duties. She appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony during King Charles III’s official birthday celebrations on Saturday, and was also seen attending a royal event at St George’s Chapel on Monday.
King Charles, 76, who is also undergoing treatment for cancer, is expected to attend Royal Ascot alongside Queen Camilla and Prince William.
Each day of Royal Ascot begins with the Royal Procession—a longstanding tradition where members of the royal family arrive in horse-drawn carriages. Guests watch the races from the exclusive Royal Enclosure, which enforces a strict dress code: top hats and morning coats for men, and hats with knee-length or longer dresses or skirts for women.
The late Queen Elizabeth II considered Royal Ascot her favorite sporting event, making it a notable occasion in royal tradition.
AFP
