Kensington Palace has confirmed why Kate Middleton was absent from Ascot, the famous racecourse in the United Kingdom, last Wednesday. Two years have passed since the Princess of Wales was last seen at the traditional horse race, and expectations were high. However, this year, Kate didn't accompany Prince William, who had to adjust his appearance at the event.
The reason that led Middleton to forgo Ascot lies in not overburdening her body after successfully overcoming her cancer. In recent weeks, Kate has been seen at multiple events, and this time, she was advised to rest.
Kensington Palace confirms the reason for Kate Middleton's absence at Ascot
For several days, the United Kingdom has been immersed in a large number of official events. Trooping the Colour was joined by King Charles III's birthday, and yesterday Ascot drew all the attention. This was especially true because it was the traditional horse race presided over by Kensington Palace with Kate Middleton as the main figure.
However, this year William's wife was not present at the racecourse. For several days, there had been high expectations for her attendance at Royal Ascot, where the Princess of Wales usually stands out with unique elegance and style.
Just a few minutes before the event began, her absence was officially confirmed, which forced the agenda organized for Prince William to be adjusted. Kate was initially included in the second royal carriage alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla, but she withdrew at the last moment.
The official statement from Kensington Palace indicated that she feels disappointed not to be able to attend, although she understands that she must listen to her body. It was noted that Kate continues to make decisions prudently during her return to public activity, managing each engagement with great care.
This strategy of balancing health and schedule is accompanied by a gradual and intelligent return, without compromising her emotional and physical recovery. That's why she declined to be at Ascot, opting for rest after her recent public appearances. Sources close to her explain that Kate seeks to find the right balance between public commitments and personal well-being, a key step in her recovery process.
Kate Middleton stays at Kensington Palace to rest after a frenetic few days
Since she announced her diagnosis in March 2024 after abdominal surgery and chemotherapy treatment, her return has been slow and measured. Last January, she confirmed that her cancer was in remission, expressing gratitude for the support received and affirming her commitment to adapt to a "new normal."
During the last few days, she has fulfilled all her official engagements at which she appeared with enthusiasm and renewed energy. On Saturday the 14th, she participated with her family in the Trooping the Colour parade, appearing smiling and very close to the public present. On Monday the 16th, she attended the Order of the Garter service in Windsor, sharing a solemn moment with the British royal family.
This series of official appearances shows that she hasn't missed any important royal engagement in recent weeks, fulfilling her institutional responsibility. Royal Ascot continues until June 21 (21 de junio), and it is not ruled out that Kate could join on one of the days if her body allows it.
The reassuring note from Kensington Palace came with the presence of Kate's mother at Ascot. Seeing Carole Middleton at the racecourse confirmed that the Princess of Wales's absence was not due to anything serious. Meanwhile, Middleton is focused on returning gradually, without pressuring herself, and especially paying attention to the signals from her body and mind.
From Kensington Palace, they assure that this absence represents exactly that "new pace" that she herself promoted after her diagnosis and treatment. Kate remains committed to her royal duties, although she prioritizes her health as the essential basis for any future long-term participation.