It was revealed last minute that Princess Catherine would not be attending Royal Ascot this year.

Princess Catherine was noticeably absent from Royal Ascot yesterday despite being listed in the official programme, prompting renewed conversation about her health.

The Mirror‘s Royal editor Russell Myers has weighed in on the decision. He called it a “clear indication” of how essential it is for the future queen to continue pacing herself.

It was revealed last minute that Princess Catherine would not be attending Royal Ascot this year. (Credit: Cover Images)

Princess Catherine’s Absence from Royal Ascot

“There can be no clearer indication for the Princess of Wales, and indeed anyone recovering from cancer, of the need to take things slowly,” Russell said.

In January, the Princess revealed that she was in remission after six months of preventative chemotherapy.

Princess Catherine’s statement at the time acknowledged that it takes “time to adjust to a new normal.”

While she expressed hope for a “fulfilling year ahead,” her absence from yesterday’s event suggests that her full return to duties is still a work in progress.

Princess Catherine was diagnosed with cancer in February 2024. Since then, she has largely stepped back from public duties to prioritise her treatment and her role as a mother to Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

After confirming the end of her chemotherapy in September, Kensington Palace emphasised that her return to work would be “staggered.”

Princess Catherine has recently made a series of high-profile appearances. These have included the opening of the Young V&A museum, Trooping the Colour, and Garter Day.

However, sources suggest that the busy schedule may have taken a toll.

Princess Catherine attended the annual Order of the Garter Service earlier this week. (Credit: Cover Images)

‘This is No Normal Life’

“Kensington Palace today said while the Princess was naturally disappointed to not attend Royal Ascot, she has to find the right balance as she manages her return,” Russell explained.

As Russell pointed out, most people recovering from illness must juggle work and family responsibilities without extended time off. However, Princess Catherine’s position comes with both privilege and pressure.

“Many people who have lived through such experiences… do not have the luxury of time afforded to the Princess.”

He continued, “Similarly, as current senior members of the royal family have shown working well into their 70s and 80s, the late Queen Elizabeth II performing a public role almost right up until she passed away, this is no normal life.”

Although King Charles is still undergoing cancer treatment himself, he has undertaken a packed schedule in recent months.

According to Russell, those close to the monarch say he’s determined to “make up for lost time.”

In contrast, Princess Catherine has made it clear that family and health will remain her top priorities.

“She’s not shying away from that,” Russell noted.

‘The Princess Needs to Listen to Her Own Body’

Still, yesterday’s absence raised some eyebrows after Royal Ascot organisers announced her attendance just 20 minutes before the Palace confirmed she wouldn’t be there.

Russell called it a “bizarre lack of communication.” Despite the confusion, the takeaway is clear.

“The Princess clearly needs to listen to her own body and mind and do what is right for her,” Russell said. “If she’s allowed to do so, her family, the royals, and indeed all the charities and organisations she works with, will reap the benefit.”

For now, the Princess of Wales is still on the road to recovery.