King Charles and Queen Camilla have confirmed their attendance at the Epsom Derby next Saturday, which coincides with the wedding of the King's nephew, Peter Phillips, to Harriet Sperling in Gloucestershire. The royal couple will attend the prestigious horse racing event at Epsom Downs Racecourse, continuing a long-standing tradition of royal presence at the Derby.
Royal Wedding and Derby Day Clash
Peter Phillips, the eldest grandchild of the late Queen Elizabeth II, will marry Harriet Sperling on June 6 at All Saints Church in Kemble, Gloucestershire. The wedding is expected to be attended by many royal family members, including his mother, Princess Anne, and cousin, Prince William. However, King Charles and Queen Camilla are scheduled to appear at the Betfred Derby Day, where they will watch the 247th running of the famous Derby. It is anticipated that they will attend the wedding ceremony before traveling to Epsom in time for the main race.
Royal Patronage and Tradition
The King and Queen are joint patrons of the Jockey Club, and their attendance continues a tradition upheld by the late Queen, who rarely missed the Epsom Derby during her 70-year reign. Jim Allen, General Manager of Epsom Downs Racecourse, expressed delight at the royal couple's visit, stating: "We are honoured and thrilled that The King and Queen will be joining us at Epsom Downs on Derby Day. Their Majesties show great enthusiasm, interest and support for horse racing in the UK." He added that Derby Day is a globally celebrated event, and royal attendance has been a hallmark for generations.
Peter Phillips and Harriet Sperling's Wedding
Peter Phillips, 48, and Harriet Sperling, who began dating in 2024, announced their engagement in August last year. The couple will marry in a private ceremony at All Saints Church in Kemble, Cirencester. Phillips, the son of Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips, lives on his mother's Gatcombe Park estate. He was previously married to Autumn Phillips from 2008 to 2020, with whom he shares two daughters, Savannah, 15, and Isla, 14. The couple attended Royal Ascot with King Charles and Queen Camilla last year and participated in the traditional carriage procession.
