Princess Kate unexpectedly withdrew from the royal procession on the second day of Royal Ascot, surprising many royal watchers and attendees who had hoped to see her. As a result, Prince William rode alone in the lead carriage with King Charles and Queen Camilla.

Her Appearance Had Been Announced

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge were scheduled to take part in the procession, and Kate’s name had appeared in Royal Ascot’s official programme and on their social media platforms, sparking excitement. However, Kensington Palace later confirmed she would not be attending, attributing the confusion to a “miscommunication.”

Social Media Error Sparks Confusion

Royal Ascot’s official X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram accounts had listed the Princess of Wales as a carriage rider alongside King Charles, Queen Camilla, and Prince William.

Soon after, Kensington Palace released a clarification stating Kate would not be present. The Palace explained that although they had already informed Ascot of her absence, an inaccurate version of the carriage lineup was mistakenly distributed.

The updated announcement from Kensington Palace came at 12:20 p.m.—just under two hours before the royal procession was set to begin at 2:00 p.m.

A spokesperson explained, “We notified Ascot that Her Royal Highness would not be attending. Unfortunately, an inaccurate version of the carriage list was issued in error after that notification. The correct list was then circulated.”