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Catherine, Princess of Wales, has officially withdrawn from attending Royal Ascot 2025 as she continues her recovery from cancer.
Kensington Palace confirmed on Wednesday that Catherine will not be joining Prince William, King Charles III, or Queen Camilla at the event.
Royal Ascot, held annually in Berkshire, is a major fixture in the British royal calendar and a highlight of the summer social season.
Her absence underscores her cautious approach to returning to public duties.
A Careful Return Following Cancer Treatment
Catherine, also known as Kate, is still navigating her recovery journey after announcing she was cancer-free in September 2024.
In March of that same year, she shared publicly that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Although she appeared on the Buckingham Palace balcony last Saturday during King Charles’s birthday parade, Royal Ascot was deemed too early for a full return.
The palace said she is working to “find the right balance following her battle with cancer.”
The Significance of Royal Ascot to the Royals
Royal Ascot is one of Britain’s oldest and most prestigious sporting events, combining high-stakes horse racing with royal tradition.
Each day of the five-day meeting begins with the Royal Procession.
Members of the royal family, including the monarch, arrive in horse-drawn carriages before gathering in the exclusive Royal Enclosure.
This event was particularly beloved by the late Queen Elizabeth II, who rarely missed it during her lifetime.
Catherine is said to be disappointed to miss the 2025 edition of the event.
Dress Code and Traditions at Royal Ascot
The Royal Enclosure at Ascot maintains one of the most formal dress codes in Britain.
Men are required to wear top hats and morning coats, while women must wear hats and dresses or skirts that are at least knee-length.
These traditions reflect the event’s long history, which dates back to 1711 when Queen Anne founded the racecourse.
The elegance and formality of the event have made it a symbol of British cultural identity and high society.
King Charles III Also Battling Cancer
Catherine is not the only senior royal dealing with health challenges this year.
King Charles III, age 76, announced earlier in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with an unspecified type of cancer.
Despite his diagnosis, the king has resumed several public duties and continues to undergo treatment.
Both Charles and Catherine have shown strength and resilience during their recoveries, earning widespread admiration.
Catherine’s Recent Public Appearances
Though she missed Royal Ascot, Catherine has gradually re-emerged in the public eye.
Over the weekend, she joined the royal family on the Buckingham Palace balcony for the Trooping the Colour ceremony.
She also attended an official royal event at St George’s Chapel on Monday at the Windsor estate.
These appearances signal a steady but careful re-entry into her royal responsibilities.
Her choice to miss Royal Ascot highlights her commitment to prioritizing health while staying connected to royal traditions.
Public Support for the Princess of Wales
Catherine’s health journey has resonated deeply with the public in the United Kingdom and beyond.
Many have praised her openness about her diagnosis and her strength throughout treatment.
Social media has been filled with messages of support, wishing her a full recovery and expressing hope to see her at future royal events.
Her absence from Royal Ascot was met with understanding and compassion from fans and the media.
A Look Ahead for the Royal Family
The British royal family continues to adapt to health challenges and shifting responsibilities.
With both King Charles and Princess Catherine on the road to recovery, the coming months will likely involve a gradual rebalancing of public appearances.
Prince William continues to represent the family at major events, offering a steady presence.
As Catherine’s health improves, royal watchers anticipate her return to more frequent engagements.
