Princess of Wales Kate Middleton has reignited concern over her ongoing health battle after she abruptly cancelled her scheduled appearance at the Royal Ascot on Wednesday, just an hour before she was expected to arrive. According to a report by OK! Magazine, Kate’s sudden withdrawal from the prestigious horse racing event has caused unease within the royal household.
A palace insider reportedly told the outlet that there is a “real sense of panic” regarding the Princess of Wales’s condition. Kate, 42, has kept a low public profile in recent months while undergoing treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer, first announced earlier this year. Her absence from high-profile events such as Trooping the Colour and now Royal Ascot has fueled ongoing speculation and concern about her recovery.
Following the cancellation, Kensington Palace confirmed that Prince William will continue to carry out engagements without his wife in the coming weeks. Most notably, the Prince of Wales is set to take part in London Climate Action Week, with appearances scheduled for June 24 and 26.
According to GB News, William will represent two of his leading environmental initiatives: The Earthshot Prize and The Royal Foundation’s United for Wildlife. His schedule includes meetings with Earthshot Prize finalists and discussions with high-profile climate figures such as Michael Bloomberg and former New Zealand Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern.
As reported by the Daily Express, the Prince will also join wildlife advocate Robert Irwin onstage during one of the events, further underscoring his dedication to environmental causes.
However, royal sources have confirmed that Kate is not expected to attend any of the events alongside her husband. Her absence comes at a time when the Royal Family is already under scrutiny due to King Charles III’s own health challenges, following his cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
Kate’s decision to pull out of Royal Ascot at the last moment has left royal watchers worried, especially given the significance of the event within the royal calendar. Traditionally, a favorite among senior royals, the event serves as a key social and ceremonial outing.
While the palace has not issued an updated statement on the Princess’s health, her ongoing retreat from public life is seen by many as a signal that her condition may be more serious than initially suggested. For now, Prince William is expected to continue fulfilling royal duties solo, while the nation watches closely for any news regarding the future queen’s recovery.