A significant update regarding Kate Middleton’s ongoing cancer treatment has emerged, offering new insight into her absence from this year’s Royal Ascot—and reinforcing the importance of her continued focus on recovery.
While the Princess of Wales was originally expected to attend the prestigious horse racing event, she ultimately withdrew due to feeling “under the weather.” Her absence came just days after she made two rare public appearances: one at Trooping the Colour and another at the Order of the Garter service.
According to sources close to the royal household, the decision to skip Ascot was made out of caution. A well-placed insider told GB News, “Catherine knows she should not overdo things.” The source emphasised that while her recovery progresses, “things have not been plain sailing.”
Another palace insider added, “She is grateful that her recovery has gone well, but she still needs to be careful with her schedule and energy levels.” Kate’s recent attendance at Trooping the Colour marked her first public appearance since announcing her cancer diagnosis earlier this year.
Though she was praised for her composed and graceful presence, those close to the royal family stress that managing her health remains a top priority. “It was a busy day at Trooping the Colour at the weekend,” a source noted. “And, if she’s feeling slightly under the weather, it’s better that she takes it easy.”
Compounding the confusion around her absence from Royal Ascot was a mix-up involving the official carriage list. According to the Daily Mail, a source revealed that the Palace had notified event organisers of Kate’s decision to pull out ahead of time. However, “an inaccurate version of the carriage list was issued in error after that notification,” they explained. “The correct list was then circulated.”
The adjustment also required a reshuffling of guests. To accommodate Prince William in the royal carriage, Lord Soames—a close friend of King Charles—was bumped from the first carriage. Insiders shared that the Princess was “disappointed” to miss the event, but understood that she needed to “find the right balance” in her public schedule as she continues treatment.
As one of the most beloved members of the royal family, Kate’s ongoing recovery has drawn widespread public support. While her recent absence raised questions, this latest update serves as a reminder that her health and well-being remain the top priority.