Princess of Wales returns to Ascot after three-year absence as she joins King and William in royal box

The Princess of Wales made her long-awaited return to Royal Ascot today, marking her first appearance at the prestigious Berkshire race meeting since 2023.Catherine, 44, radiated joy in a striking canary yellow gown by designer Roksanda as she took part in the traditional carriage procession alongside Prince William, 43.The royal couple travelled in the second carriage, accompanied by the Duke and Duchess of Richmond and Gordon, following directly behind King Charles and Queen Camilla in the lead carriage.The future Queen's comeback to the famous racing event comes after a two-year hiatus during which she underwent preventative chemotherapy treatment. TRENDING Stories Videos Your Say Spectators at the racecourse expressed delight at seeing Catherine back among the royal party for day two of the sporting occasion.William and Catherine are spending the afternoon in the royal box with the King and Queen.The Princess of Wales paired her vibrant frock with a matching yellow hat, while Prince William complemented his wife's ensemble by pinning yellow blooms to his lapel in a coordinated touch.This marks the third outing for the sunshine-hued Roksanda piece, which Catherine previously selected for a state visit to Jamaica and an appearance at Wimbledon back in 2022.Her fashion choices at Ascot have consistently demonstrated her ability to anticipate trends, with her 2023 appearance featuring a striking tomato red Alexander McQueen creation.That bold crimson shade has since been named Royal Ascot's inaugural colour of the year, with the event's official lookbook declaring: Bright tomato is the kind of colour that doesn't just join the party at Royal Ascot - it leads it.The Princess of Wales appeared visibly thrilled to be back in the Windsor Enclosure among family and fellow members of the royal household.Royal supporters were left disappointed in 2025 when Kensington Palace confirmed her absence, with the announcement coming less than half an hour after her name had appeared on the official carriage procession list.Sources close to the palace indicated at the time that she was attempting to find the right balance as she gradually resumed public engagements.The Princess of Wales had last attended the famous racing fixture in 2023.In January 2025, Catherine shared the welcome news that she was in remission, subsequently beginning a careful and phased return to her official duties.Her presence at Ascot today represents a significant milestone in that measured comeback to royal life.Catherine's mother Carole Middleton also made a stylish appearance at the Berkshire venue, arriving alongside daughter-in-law Alizee Thevenet.The 71-year-old opted for an elegant blush pink Catherine Walker coat dress, a piece she originally wore to younger daughter Pippa Middleton's wedding ceremony nine years ago.Carole looked remarkably unchanged as she recycled the sophisticated ensemble for the prestigious racing occasion.She joined members of the Royal Family within the exclusive Windsor Enclosure throughout the afternoon.Among the other royals present were Lady Sarah Chatto and her husband Daniel Chatto, who were spotted enjoying the festivities alongside the Princess of Wales.The King and Queen will be hoping for improved fortunes on the track today after their horse Reaching High came last in Tuesday's Ascot Stakes, with their colt Point Of Law running in the Queen's Vase this afternoon.Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter