His Majesty The King was spotted sharing a warm embrace with Zara Tindall at Royal Ascot this afternoon.
Zara, wearing a baby pink dress by Rebecca Vallance, met with the King on the grass ahead of the day’s races.
Accompanied by her husband Mike, who matched her outfit with a vibrant pink tie, the couple spoke to King Charles, with the trio seen laughing, smiling, and enjoying the occasion.
Initially, Zara greeted her uncle with a wave, before a curtsy and finally kissing him on the cheek. Mike, meanwhile, was momentarily distracted with his phone.
King Charles, opting for a light grey suit with a black top hat and umbrella, seemed to enjoy the interaction, while his niece, Zara, was left in stitches.
The monarch has attended Royal Ascot every year since he assumed the throne, and for 2026, he encouraged racegoers to enjoy a “thrilling” week of action ahead.
Writing the foreword to the official race-day programme, the King and Queen said: “We wish you a very warm welcome to Royal Ascot, which promises to deliver another spectacular week of racing.
“Some of the best horses from Europe, North America, Asia and Australasia are expected to run this week and they will be watched by viewers in close to 200 countries.”
The King and Queen then led the royal procession, sharing their carriage with the Duke and Duchess of Wellington.
Following closely in the second carriage was the Princess Royal, 75, King Charles's younger sister.
Princess Anne was accompanied by her son, Peter Phillips, and his new bride, Harriet Phillips.
Peter and Harriet exchanged vows in a romantic ceremony in the Cotswolds earlier this month. Today marks their first public outing as husband and wife.
Queen Camilla’s son, Sir Ben Elliot, made up the last spot in the second carriage.
The Duke and Duchess of Gloucester then followed in the third carriage.
Zara and Mike, who were joined by their two eldest children, Mia, 12, and Lena, seven, did not take part in the traditional carriage processions.
The King’s niece encountered an awkward moment when she was refused entry to the event, after a security guard failed to recognise her.
Zara was politely redirected towards the ticket office after attempting to gain entry through the owners' entrance without a pass.
Despite politely accepting the instruction and heading to the ticket gates, the error was quickly resolved and Zara was granted entrance.
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