Royal Ascot 2026 is in full swing at Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, bringing together the British royal family, celebrities, and horse racing enthusiasts for five days of world-class racing, style, and pageantry from June 16-20, 2026 www.ascot.com .

The iconic horse racing event, which completes a trilogy of events that keep the British royal family booked and busy in June, has drawn impressive crowds and stunning fashion choices www.nine.com.au .

Day Three Highlights: Stanley Tucci's Surprise Appearance

On Thursday, June 18, many fans were shocked to see that following King Charles and Queen Camilla in the royal carriage procession was none other than Hollywood star Stanley Tucci www.nine.com.au .

The actor, who calls the UK home after marrying Emily Blunt's sister Felicity Blunt, donned a top hat, sunglasses, and a beaming smile as he waved to the crowds www.nine.com.au . Tucci and Blunt rode in the fourth and final carriage in the procession, along with Lord and Lady Cavendish www.nine.com.au .

Day Two: Princess Kate's Triumphant Yellow Return

On Wednesday, the Princess of Wales outshone the entire royal family—literally. Kate re-wore a striking canary yellow Roksanda dress she previously donned for the Wimbledon women's final in 2022, after debuting it during a royal visit to Jamaica earlier that year www.nine.com.au .

This was paired with a showstopping matching Jane Taylor London hat and accessorized with royal heirloom jewelry. The three-strand pearl bracelet belonged to Princess Diana, and the diamond chandelier earrings were once Queen Elizabeth II's www.nine.com.au .

The mum-of-three also wore her trio of rings, including her engagement ring, wedding band, and the diamond and sapphire eternity band believed to be gifted by Prince William following the end of her cancer treatment in 2024 www.nine.com.au .

Royal Family Attendance

The week has seen strong royal attendance, with King Charles and Queen Camilla leading the carriage procession each day. Princess Anne and her daughter Zara Tindall have been regular attendees, with Zara showcasing her affinity for Australian fashion designers www.nine.com.au .

However, there have been two notable absentees: Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie, who are usually Royal Ascot regulars, have been missing in action www.nine.com.au . It's not known if the sisters will attend on other days; however, they have missed several key royal events in the wake of the arrest of their father Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor www.nine.com.au .

Special Moments

Day three marked a significant moment for David Armstrong-Jones, the Earl of Snowdon (son of the late Princess Margaret), who rode in the first carriage alongside his cousin King Charles and his girlfriend, art curator Isabelle de La Bruyère www.nine.com.au . The move marks a huge step in the couple's two-year relationship www.nine.com.au .

Newlyweds Peter and Harriet Phillips also made their first public appearance as a married couple, having wed just a fortnight ago www.nine.com.au .

Fashion and Style

Royal Ascot is as much about fashion as it is about horse racing, with attendees adhering to strict dress codes and showcasing their finest raceday looks. From elaborate hats to elegant dresses and tailored suits, the event serves as a showcase for British and international fashion.

Zara Tindall has been particularly noted for her support of Australian designers, wearing pieces by Rebecca Vallance and Leo Lin throughout the week www.nine.com.au .

Celebrity Sightings

Beyond Stanley Tucci, other celebrity attendees have included former F1 boss Christian Horner and his Spice Girls icon wife Geri Horner, who made a stylish duo in the crowd www.nine.com.au .

Royal Ascot continues through Saturday, June 20, 2026, with more racing, royal appearances, and fashion moments to come.