Reports suggest that Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie may not attend Royal Ascot this year, following recent developments involving their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. According to claims published by The Mail on Sunday, the sisters will reportedly not take their usual seats in the Royal Box at the prestigious Berkshire racing event, nor join senior royals in the traditional carriage procession. The reported decision comes after Andrew was arrested on 19 February on suspicion of misconduct in public office. He was released after questioning, and authorities have stated that investigations remain ongoing. Andrew has consistently denied any wrongdoing. While no formal announcement has been made by Buckingham Palace regarding the sisters’ attendance, sources claim the move may be part of a broader effort to reduce their public-facing royal roles amid heightened scrutiny.
Royal Ascot, held annually in June, is one of the most prominent fixtures in the British social and sporting calendar, closely associated with appearances by senior members of the Royal Family. Beatrice and Eugenie have been regular attendees for many years, making the reported change notable. Observers say the situation has raised questions about how recent events could affect the York sisters’ public engagements moving forward. Although they are not working royals, they have occasionally represented the family at select events. Commentators suggest that, for now, they may choose to maintain a lower profile while investigations continue. Representatives for Buckingham Palace and Royal Ascot have not publicly commented on the claims.