Princess Eugenie has been granted a notably prominent position at today's Royal Ascot, travelling in the second carriage of the royal procession alongside her husband, Jack Brooksbank.
The Princess of York and her husband shared their carriage with racehorse trainer Ed Walker and his wife, Camilla Walker.
Their placement directly behind the King and Queen's lead carriage represents a significant honour. King Charles and Queen Camilla were accompanied by horse trainer Sir Mark Prescott and actress Lizzie Spender in the first carriage.
The positioning placed Eugenie and Jack at the forefront of the royal contingent, preceding various other figures in the procession.
Princess Eugenie rides in carriage directly behind King in extraordinary moment for Prince Andrew’s daughter.
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In addition to her prominent carriage placement, Princess Eugenie will present the trophy for the Hardwicke Stakes, one of the final day's key races.
This represents a rare formal presentational duty for the 35-year-old, who is not a working royal.
Queen Camilla will present the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes prize, whilst Eugenie's trophy presentation marks what has been described as "a rare and highly symbolic move that signals a notable shift in the monarchy's public dynamic."
The decision to grant Eugenie this ceremonial role at one of the year's most significant royal fixtures represents a marked elevation in her public position.
Princess Eugenie sat in a carriage with her husband, Jack Brooksbank.
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The gesture towards Eugenie comes as her father, Prince Andrew, remains excluded from royal duties following his public controversies.
Despite the Duke of York's continued absence from official engagements, his daughters have been protected from criticism and have increasingly taken on more visible roles in a personal capacity.
The King's decision has been interpreted as demonstrating "a broader, more inclusive approach to royal representation—one that acknowledges the value of non-working members of the Royal Family in high-profile ceremonial roles."
This approach allows trusted family members to participate in major events whilst maintaining the distinction between working and non-working royals.
King Charles appeared in good spirits for the final day of Ascot.
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King Charles and Queen Camilla pictured in the leading carriage at Ascot.
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Eugenie, who divides her time between Portugal and the UK, has maintained strong relationships with both King Charles and Prince William.
Her selection for today's honour reflects what has been described as the King's "long-held preference for a slimmed-down monarchy—one that remains flexible enough to involve family members when appropriate."
The decision represents more than a personal achievement for Eugenie. It demonstrates the monarchy's evolving approach to family involvement, prioritising loyalty and unity over formal working status.
Today's prominent role at Ascot confirms that, despite operating from outside the core working royal group, Eugenie remains a trusted and valued member of the Royal Family.
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