Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie will not participate in the traditional Royal Ascot races this year, which take place in June in the UK. This was reported by the Daily Mail, citing a source close to the event's organization.
According to the newspaper, the decision is related to the ongoing public outcry surrounding their father — Prince Andrew — and his previous contacts with financier Jeffrey Epstein. It is also claimed that Andrew's ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, is not expected to attend the event.
A source cited by the Daily Mail stated that the sisters were informed of their inability to attend this year. According to him, Beatrice allegedly "took the news hard." As of the publication, there has been no official confirmation from Buckingham Palace or the race organizers.
Prince Andrew stepped back from public duties in 2019 after a BBC interview in which he commented on his connections with Epstein. In January 2022, Elizabeth II stripped him of his military titles and royal patronages.
Royal Ascot is considered one of the key events in the British social and royal calendar. The absence of family members at this event traditionally attracts media attention; however, the royal court usually does not comment on the official reasons for staffing decisions.
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