Zara Tindall was absent from the Trooping the Colour celebrations marking King Charles’ birthday but returned to the royal spotlight during Royal Ascot, sharing an affectionate reunion with her uncle. The royal gathering at the prestigious horse racing event saw Zara warmly greet King Charles with kisses, an acceptable public display of affection within the royal family.
However, despite the apparent warmth, royal protocol still governs interactions, even between close family members. Former royal butler Grant Harrold explained to BoyleSports that while it is common for lower-ranking royals to kiss the monarch in public, a traditional gesture must follow. After the initial greeting, it’s customary to bow or curtsy as a sign of respect — a practice that remains consistent both behind the scenes and in public.
Harrold highlighted that such gestures have long been part of royal tradition, noting that even the late Queen and her children commonly exchanged cheek kisses followed by a bow or curtsy. Zara respected this tradition at Royal Ascot by curtseying to the King after their embrace, with her husband Mike Tindall standing by her side, underscoring the royal balance between warmth and protocol.
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Besides social etiquette, practical rules are also observed at Royal Ascot. Harrold mentioned that royals avoid public use of water bottles or electric fans, especially noticeable during the UK heatwave. For instance, Camilla might carry a fan but would never use it openly in front of the media. Within the air-conditioned Royal box, however, the family can momentarily relax these rules away from public scrutiny.
Zara’s savvy in navigating royal customs was further evidenced when she helped guide new family member Harriet Sperling, adjusting the angle of her hat to align with appropriate dress codes. Zara and Mike were not part of the ceremonial carriage procession, which was limited to four carriages this year. Meanwhile, Princess Anne experienced a minor setback with her carriage but promptly rejoined the festivities.
King Charles’ involvement at Ascot also extended to his racehorses, with Royal runners competing throughout the week. Notably, Ascot Stakes favourite Reaching High finished ninth, and Rainbows Edge, favourite in the Kensington Palace Stakes, ended seventh despite a strong early record.
Through these moments, Zara Tindall exemplifies the delicate dance of royal tradition and personal warmth—always mindful of the one essential rule that follows a kiss with a respectful bow or curtsy.