King Charles and Queen Camilla will make their return to Epsom Downs this Saturday for Derby Day, marking their first appearance at the prestigious race meeting since 2024.
The event was a fixture in the late Queen Elizabeth II's calendar, reflecting her lifelong passion for horses and racing.
According to sources speaking to the Daily Mail, the timing means the King could miss the wedding reception of his nephew Peter Phillips.
Mr Phillips, Princess Anne's son, is marrying Harriet Sperling at All Saints Church, Kemble, Cirencester.
King Charles's attendance at the nuptials itself is anticipated, though not officially confirmed by Buckingham Palace.
The reception after the ceremony is expected to take place on the Princess Royal's Gatcombe Park estate in Gloucestershire.
Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie, the King's nieces, are thought to be included on the closely guarded guest list.
Should the King be unable to attend the reception, it could mean missing a rare public family gathering with the York sisters.
Beatrice and Eugenie have maintained a relatively low public profile in recent months following the upheaval surrounding their father, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, last year.
The sisters were absent from the Easter Sunday service in April with King Charles and other members of the Royal Family. GB News understands that this decision was made with the agreement and understanding of the King.
Both sisters were present during the family Christmas festivities at Sandringham in 2025 with their respective husbands, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi and Jack Brooksbank.
The People's Channel also understands that Beatrice and Eugenie will be seen at future family celebrations.
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As joint patrons of The Jockey Club, the King and Queen will carry out several official duties during their visit to watch the 247th running of The Derby. Around 40,000 spectators are expected at the racecourse on Saturday.
Their Majesties will be introduced to Andy Hornby, who chairs Epsom Downs Racecourse, along with senior figures from the venue and The Jockey Club.
In keeping with longstanding tradition, the royal couple will present ceremonial caps to jockeys competing in The Derby for the first time.
After the race concludes, Charles and Camilla will award the trophy in the Winner's Enclosure before congratulating the victorious connections.
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