Princess Eugenie will present a prestigious trophy at Royal Ascot today in a rare and highly symbolic move that signals a notable shift in the monarchy’s public dynamic.
Although she is not a working royal, the youngest daughter of Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson has been invited to hand out the trophy for the Hardwicke Stakes—one of the key races on the final day of the historic event.
Queen Camilla, meanwhile, will present the prize for the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Stakes.
It is a remarkable moment for Eugenie, 35, and one that will be seen as a significant gesture from King Charles.
Princess Eugenie given major responsibility at Royal Ascot in surprising move by King Charles.
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The monarch appears to be signalling 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.
Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank will also ride in the second carriage of today’s procession, directly behind King Charles and Queen Camilla.
The prominent placement puts the couple front and centre in the royal lineup, ahead of several senior figures, in what could be interpreted as a clear vote of confidence.
While Eugenie and her sister Princess Beatrice have never held official working royal status, they have regularly supported the Royal Family at large public occasions.
King Charles kissing Princess Eugenie's hand at Royal Ascot.
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However, being given a formal presentational role at one of the year’s most important royal fixtures marks a notable elevation.
The decision is all the more striking given the continued public fallout surrounding Prince Andrew.
While the Duke of York remains excluded from royal duties, his daughters have largely been shielded from criticism and have gradually been taking on more visible roles in a personal capacity.
Eugenie, who now lives between Portugal and the UK, has remained close to both King Charles and Prince William.
Princess Eugenie curtsying in front of Queen Camilla.
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King Charles is thought to be very fond of his niece, Princess Eugenie.
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Her inclusion in today’s lineup could be part of a broader plan to subtly bring trusted non-working royals into the fold for major events, especially as the monarchy adapts to a smaller core team of full-time members.
The King’s decision to bestow a Royal Ascot honour on Eugenie may also reflect a desire to modernise the monarchy by rewarding loyalty and family unity over rigid job titles.
It echoes Charles’s long-held preference for a slimmed-down monarchy—one that remains flexible enough to involve family members when appropriate.
For Eugenie, today is not only a personal milestone but a public demonstration of trust. Her prominent role at Ascot signals that, even from the periphery, she remains a valued and respected figure within the evolving royal landscape.
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