Princess of Wales shares why she missed Royal Ascot, citing ongoing recovery; Here's what she revealed

The Princess of Wales, Catherine, has issued her first public statement after unexpectedly withdrawing from Royal Ascot. The 43-year-old was registered to ride in the second carriage alongside King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William. However, she pulled out just 20 minutes before showtime, citing health concerns and the need to balance her recovery with public duties.

Rather than comment on her absence from Ascot, Kate used the occasion to draw attention to Children’s Hospice Week. As patron of East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices and Tŷ Hafan Children’s Hospice in South Wales, she praised their work.

She said, “No parent expects to hear that their child has a serious health condition… thousands are left heartbroken, fearful of the future and often desperately isolated.”

“Being able to access the support of one of the UK’s 54 children’s hospices means they don’t have to face that future alone.”

Kate returned to the public eye recently and attended Trooping the Colour and the Order of the Garter. She publicly announced her cancer remission in January after undergoing chemotherapy.

Her late withdrawal from Ascot came amid concerns about her overall energy levels. Palace insiders confirmed she was “disappointed” but that fatigue played a key role. The abrupt cancellation caused temporary concern among aides before they clarified it was to protect her ongoing recovery.

Friends with the couple say she’s learning to “listen to her body” and carve out a sustainable balance between health and royal engagement.

Royal staff reportedly experienced a momentary “panic” after her sudden absence. However, King Charles and Prince William supported her decision, prioritising health over royal duties.

Public reaction has been largely supportive. Commentators praised her thoughtful redirection of focus toward high-need charities during a time when public expectation had centred on her presence at Ascot.