Princess of Wales to Miss Colonel’s Review Due to Chemotherapy, Palace Confirms

The Princess of Wales will not attend the Colonel’s Review, the traditional rehearsal for Trooping the Colour, on June 8 as she continues chemotherapy treatment, royal officials confirmed today.

Troops of the Household Division take part in the Brigade Major's Review in London today

Buckingham Palace also announced that for Trooping the Colour on June 15, King Charles III will travel in a carriage with Queen Camilla, rather than on horseback, due to his ongoing cancer treatment.

During the Colonel’s Review, Lieutenant General James Bucknall will inspect the soldiers on behalf of the Princess, who would normally take the salute in her role as Colonel of the Irish Guards. However, she will remain away from public duties while undergoing treatment and resting at home.

The confirmation comes after the Army removed a claim made in March on its website that Kate would be appearing at Trooping the Colour (pictured) and had begun selling tickets

The Army previously removed a March announcement that Kate would appear at Trooping the Colour, which had caused confusion after Kensington Palace stated her attendance was not confirmed. The Ministry of Defence also had to retract a claim about her attending the rehearsal on June 8.

Troops of the Household Division take part in the Brigade Major's Review in London today

The King, who usually reviews the Guardsmen on horseback, will adapt his participation based on medical advice. Earlier this year, Buckingham Palace indicated that the King’s engagements would be reviewed and adjusted according to his health.

The changes in royal participation highlight ongoing health concerns for both the King and the Princess of Wales. Despite these challenges, the Trooping the Colour ceremony will proceed as planned, including the traditional royal family balcony appearance at Buckingham Palace.

2022 -- William, Kate and their children attend Trooping the Colour in London on June 2, 2022

On Tuesday, the Army confirmed nearly 1,000 soldiers and around 240 horses will participate in the parade rehearsal. The event, involving a khaki rehearsal at Horse Guards Parade, ensures that all participants are prepared for the official ceremonies in June.

The Royal Family has also postponed engagements that might distract from the upcoming General Election on July 4.

Troops of the Household Division take part in the Brigade Major's Review in London today

In recent appearances, King Charles met with the High Commissioner for Sri Lanka at Buckingham Palace and toured the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art with Queen Camilla, meeting alumni including David Harewood and Cynthia Erivo.