Kate and William Take Center Stage: A Pivotal Role in Macron’s State Visit to the UK

Princess Kate and Prince William are set to play a key role during the much-anticipated state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte to the UK, scheduled from July 8 to 10. Together with King Charles III (76) and Queen Camilla (77), the Prince and Princess of Wales will be at the heart of the royal welcome — including a spectacular carriage procession through historic Windsor.

Kate and William Step Up as Hosts

In a break from tradition, the future King and Queen of England will personally welcome the French presidential couple at RAF Northolt, a Royal Air Force base in West London. From there, the royal and presidential pairs will travel together to Windsor, where they will join King Charles and Queen Camilla for an official ceremony featuring gun salutes and the grand procession that will captivate onlookers.

This visit, hailed as diplomatically significant for Anglo-French relations, takes place in Windsor because Buckingham Palace is currently undergoing renovations. British broadcaster Sky News has already dubbed the occasion “untraditional” due to London being left out entirely.

All Eyes on Camilla and Brigitte — After That Awkward Moment

The world is also watching closely how Queen Camilla and Brigitte Macron interact this time. During the D-Day wreath-laying ceremony in Normandy in June 2024, Brigitte’s attempt to hold Camilla’s hand was subtly rebuffed — sparking speculation about tension. Their next encounter promises to be intriguing.

Kate’s Star Power in Diplomacy Shines Bright

The highlight of the three-day visit will be the state banquet at Windsor Castle, where King Charles and President Macron are expected to deliver speeches reaffirming ties between the two nations. It remains to be seen whether Princess Kate, who is recovering from cancer treatment, will attend the formal dinner. However, the visit already underscores her and William’s growing importance as Britain’s diplomatic power couple. Notably, Macron is the first European leader to pay a state visit to the UK since Brexit.

A Visit Full of Symbolism — and Disruption

For residents of Windsor, the visit will come with its share of challenges. According to the BBC, several streets will close for hours on Monday and Tuesday for rehearsals and the ceremonial parade. Airspace over Windsor will also be restricted to aircraft and drones, except in emergencies.

For the Macrons, this marks their first UK state visit since 2008, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. Key topics on the agenda include the war in Ukraine and trade relations. For Princess Kate, the occasion represents another step forward in her journey toward becoming Britain’s future queen, all while maintaining focus on her health during her ongoing recovery.