The Princess of Wales made a celebrated return to Royal Ascot on
Wednesday, taking part in the traditional Royal Procession
alongside the Prince of Wales for the first time in three
years.
Catherine, who last attended the Berkshire race meeting in 2023,
rode with Prince William in the second carriage alongside the Duke
and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon as thousands of racegoers lined
the course to welcome the Royal Family.
Her appearance marked a significant moment after she missed
Royal Ascot in 2024 while undergoing treatment for cancer.
There had been confusion surrounding last year’s meeting when
the Princess’s name appeared in the official programme, prompting
concern when she did not arrive. Kensington Palace later stressed
that Catherine had never intended to attend and that her absence
had always been expected as she focused on her recovery.
The Princess’s return was one of the highlights of the second
day of the royal meeting, with spectators gathering along the
railings to catch a glimpse of the future Queen as the procession
made its way down the straight shortly before racing began.
Leading the procession in the first carriage were The King and
Queen, accompanied by Lady Sarah Chatto and her husband, Daniel
Chatto. Behind the Prince and Princess of Wales in the second
carriage were the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon.
The third carriage carried Rory Stewart and his wife, together
with Lady Sarah Keswick and the Marchioness of Lansdowne. In the
fourth carriage were leading trainers William Haggas and John
Gosden, accompanied by Maureen Haggas and Rachel Hood.
The Royal Procession, which has opened each day of Royal Ascot
since 1825, remains one of the most cherished traditions of the
sporting and social calendar.