HerThe Royal Ascot 2025 welcomed numerous members of the British royal family, distinguished guests, and dignitaries on its second day in Berkshire, England. Among the notable highlights was a friendly moment between Prince William, the Prince of Wales, and his mother-in-law, Carole Middleton, which drew attention both in media coverage and on social platforms.
The interaction, captured during the Queen’s Vase event on June 18, 2025, portrayed a warm and cordial exchange that underscored the strong bond shared between Prince William and the Middleton family. With Princess Catherine notably absent from the day’s proceedings, the photographs of Prince William and Carole Middleton added a more personal dimension to an otherwise formal royal event.
Sources: BBC News, Royal.uk, Ascot Racecourse, The Times UK, Getty Images
Royal Ascot 2025: A Snapshot of Tradition and Elegance
Royal Ascot is one of the most prestigious horse racing events in the UK and a key fixture in the royal calendar. Known for its formal dress code and ceremonial traditions, the event draws attendees from around the world, including members of the British royal family. The 2025 edition followed long-standing protocols, with the Royal Procession marking the beginning of the day’s races.
On Day Two, King Charles III, Queen Camilla, Prince William, and Prince Saud bin Khalid Al-Saud arrived in ceremonial horse-drawn carriages, receiving a warm reception from spectators. The King and Queen smiled and waved as they proceeded down the track, continuing a tradition that dates back to the early 19th century.
Source: Ascot Racecourse, The Guardian
Prince William and Carole Middleton’s Friendly Interaction
During the Queen’s Vase race, Prince William was seen in the Royal Box sharing a pleasant conversation with Carole Middleton, the mother of Princess Catherine, Princess of Wales. Their interaction, which included smiles and what appeared to be a lighthearted conversation, was captured by press photographers and widely circulated across media outlets and official image platforms.
In one image, Carole Middleton, dressed in a pastel yellow lace outfit and matching wide-brimmed hat, stood beside Prince William as they observed the races together. Another moment captured a brief embrace — a rare but natural gesture reflecting the family’s familiarity and warmth.
Their conversation, expressions, and proximity conveyed a mutual sense of respect and comfort, aligning with the Middleton family’s long-standing support of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Sources: Getty Images, BBC News, People Magazine
Carole Middleton’s Presence at the Royal Event
Carole Middleton has attended Royal Ascot in previous years, and her inclusion among guests in the Royal Enclosure reflects the continuing presence and recognition of the Middleton family within royal social settings. Since the marriage of Prince William and Catherine in 2011, Carole and her husband, Michael Middleton, have participated in select royal engagements, always maintaining a low and respectful public profile.
During the 2025 event, Carole was also seen speaking with King Charles III in the royal box. Their cordial exchange, documented in press photos, showed them watching the races side-by-side and sharing conversation. Such moments contribute to the public image of unity and mutual respect within the extended royal family.
Source: Royal.uk, Getty Images
Princess Catherine’s Absence
Princess Catherine, Princess of Wales, was not present at the 2025 Royal Ascot. Her name did not appear on the official carriage procession list published by Ascot Racecourse on June 18, confirming her nonattendance. As previously shared with the public, the Princess is continuing her recovery from cancer treatment, following the announcement in March 2024 that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy after abdominal surgery.
The Royal Household has requested privacy during her treatment period, and official updates are issued only when appropriate. Despite her absence, her family was represented by both Prince William and her mother, Carole, whose attendance highlighted the ongoing support for the royal institution during significant events.
Sources: Royal.uk, BBC News, Ascot Racecourse Official X Account
Social Media Reactions: A Family Moment in the Public Eye
Images of Prince William and Carole Middleton circulated quickly on platforms such as Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where users shared reactions to their visible warmth and rapport. Many followers commented on the closeness of their relationship, highlighting the respectful and affectionate dynamic that has developed over the years.
While public reactions are varied, the overall sentiment emphasized appreciation for the family-oriented side of the royals, often seen through small, candid moments like this one. The interaction served as a reminder that personal connections and family support play an important role behind the scenes of royal duties.
Sources: People Magazine, BBC News
Royal Guests and Highlights of Day Two
In addition to the Prince of Wales and Carole Middleton, other prominent attendees at Day Two of Royal Ascot 2025 included:
- King Charles III and Queen Camilla, who led the royal procession.
- Prince Saud bin Khalid Al-Saud, who joined the royal carriage ride.
- Zara Tindall, Prince William’s cousin, who was seen greeting him in the royal box with a warm exchange.
- Lord Nicholas Soames of Fletching, observing the races from the royal box.
The day featured the Prince of Wales’ Stakes, won by Ombudsman, trained by John Gosden, marking Gosden’s 70th Royal Ascot victory. Prince William participated in the trophy presentation, congratulating both the trainer and the winning jockey.
Sources: Ascot Racecourse, Racing Post
Conclusion: A Personal Moment Amidst Royal Pageantry
The interaction between Prince William and Carole Middleton at Royal Ascot 2025 offered a glimpse into the supportive and respectful relationship within the extended royal family. While Princess Catherine continues her private recovery, her mother’s presence at such a high-profile event reflects the Middleton family’s integral role in the lives of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
As one of Britain’s most cherished annual traditions, Royal Ascot blends ceremony, sporting excellence, and social engagement. This year’s edition maintained those high standards while also allowing for meaningful personal moments, resonating with audiences around the world.
Reputable Sources Consulted:
- Royal.uk – The Official Website of the British Royal Family
- BBC News
- Ascot Racecourse Official Website
- Getty Images
- The Times UK
- Racing Post
- People Magazine
