Princess Beatrice was among the royal attendees at Royal Ascot’s opening day on June 17, 2025, but chose not to take part in the traditional carriage procession with King Charles and Queen Camilla. The procession, which is a centuries-old royal tradition, marks the official beginning of the day’s races, with the monarch and their family making a grand entrance in a horse-drawn carriage.
While King Charles, 76, and Queen Camilla, 77, were part of the procession, accompanied by other senior royals, Princess Beatrice and her husband, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, did not join them in the royal procession this time. Similarly, Zara Tindall and her husband, Mike Tindall, were also present but not in the parade, though Zara’s mother, Princess Anne, and her son, Peter Phillips, took part in the procession.
The absence of Princess Beatrice and others from the carriage procession is likely due to the limited space available in the four coaches that make up the royal parade. This has been a recurring feature at the event, as there are only so many spaces for family members to join the procession each day. While they missed out on the first day, it’s possible that Beatrice, Zara, and their husbands will take part later in the week, as the procession typically runs through the duration of the event.
Although they didn’t ride in the procession, the royal family members were still very much part of the day’s celebrations. Princess Beatrice and her husband Edoardo were spotted catching up with King Charles, Zara, and other family members at Ascot, exchanging warm greetings. Mike Tindall even greeted Queen Camilla with a kiss on the cheek, a touching display of familial affection. The royal family’s relaxed interaction with each other, despite their public roles, gave the event a personal touch, showing the more intimate side of royal life amidst the pageantry.
Beatrice looked stunning at the event, dressed in a stylish pink and white ensemble that was complemented by a chic headpiece. Edoardo matched her elegance with a sharp suit and top hat, adhering to the strict dress code for the occasion. Interestingly, both Beatrice and Edoardo wore name tags, a subtle but practical accessory that allowed access to certain areas and boxes within the Royal Ascot grounds. While King Charles and Queen Camilla went without the name tags, the pins were likely necessary for those attending certain parts of the event.
Royal Ascot, a tradition dating back to 1711, has long been synonymous with the British royal family, not just in terms of attendance, but also as passionate racehorse owners. Founded by Queen Anne as a venue for “horses fit for kings,” the event continues to be an important part of the royal calendar. The carriage procession, in particular, remains a highlight, with crowds gathered along the racecourse to watch the royals make their entrance. Maureen Haggas, the daughter of legendary jockey and trainer Lester Piggott, noted that it is this royal procession that draws people from around the world. “The procession and the royal family is what makes Royal Ascot,” she remarked, encapsulating the excitement and grandeur of the occasion.
The royal family’s involvement in the races extends beyond their presence at the event; they are also active participants as racehorse owners. Queen Elizabeth II, known for her deep passion for horses, made history in 2013 when her horse Estimate won the Gold Cup, making her the first reigning monarch to do so as an owner. That victory was a moment of immense pride for the Queen, as her tears of joy demonstrated the deep connection she had with her horses. King Charles, during his debut year as the reigning monarch at Royal Ascot in 2023, also experienced a similar triumph when his horse, Desert Hero, claimed a victory. The emotional response from both King Charles and Queen Camilla highlighted just how much these victories mean to them.
The royals’ participation at Ascot is just one event in a busy week for the family, who were also present in London for Trooping the Colour on June 14, a celebration of the monarch’s birthday, followed by the annual Order of the Garter service at Windsor Castle on June 16. Royal Ascot, therefore, serves as a continued celebration of both tradition and family unity, as the royal family continues to honor the legacy of their predecessors while engaging in modern traditions.
The vibrant atmosphere at Royal Ascot, the intimate moments shared between family members, and the continued successes of the royal horses all contribute to the timeless allure of this prestigious event. It’s not just a day at the races, but a symbol of the British monarchy’s connection to tradition, equestrian excellence, and the public’s fascination with royal life.
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