Carole Middleton appeared to be the life and soul of Royal Ascot as the Princess of Wales’ mother delighted racegoers with her animated appearance in the Royal Box and warm interactions with senior royals.
The 71-year-old joined a host of famous faces during the second day of the prestigious racing festival, arriving alongside her rarely seen daughter-in-law Alizee Thevenet. Dressed in a blush pink Catherine Walker ensemble she famously wore to Pippa Middleton’s wedding nine years ago, Carole once again showcased her timeless sense of style.
Carole later reunited with daughter Catherine, who was making her return to Royal Ascot after a two-year absence following her cancer diagnosis and treatment. The mother and daughter shared several touching moments throughout the day, with Kate seen holding the door open for her mother before the pair were photographed holding hands and chatting affectionately.
As racing got underway, Carole appeared to be thoroughly enjoying the occasion. She was spotted cheering enthusiastically, sharing conversations with Prince William’s childhood friend and Princess Charlotte’s godfather Thomas van Straubenzee, and catching up with members of the royal circle.
Her friendship with Lady Sarah Chatto, Princess Margaret’s daughter, was also on display, further underlining Carole’s close ties with the Royal Family.
Inside the Royal Box, Carole joined King Charles, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, Princess Anne and the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh to watch the day’s action.
Kate also opted to recycle a previous outfit, choosing a striking canary-yellow Roksanda dress she first wore during an official visit to Jamaica in 2022. Prince William complemented his wife’s look with yellow flowers pinned to his lapel.
Carole’s growing prominence within royal circles has become increasingly evident in recent years. Earlier this year, she attended the Cheltenham Festival and was even seen sharing a warm embrace with Princess Anne.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams previously explained the important role Carole plays in the Wales family.
He said: “Carole has been constant and has a calming influence. She has been indispensable in helping with meals, with the school run and also having fun with the grandchildren.”
The royal expert also compared her influence to Princess Diana’s approach to family life, describing it as “the Diana touch.”
Carole herself once spoke about her hands-on approach to being a grandmother.
She told Good Housekeeping in 2021: “I want to run down the hills, climb the trees and go through the tunnel at the playground. As long as I am able to, that’s what I’ll be doing. I cook with them, I muck around dancing, we go on bike rides.”
With her stylish appearance, joyful energy and increasingly close bonds with the royal household, Carole Middleton once again proved she is one of the most beloved figures surrounding the monarchy.
