Kate Middleton to host very special reception at Windsor Castle for England women's rugby squad
The reception will mark one of Kate's first events in the new year
Kate Middleton is set to welcome the victorious England women’s rugby team, the Red Roses, to Windsor Castle for a royal reception in their honour.
Kensington Palace confirmed that Princess Kate, patron of the Rugby Football Union, will host the team on Thursday, January 15, in recognition of their Rugby World Cup win last September.
The Red Roses clinched the title with a 33–13 victory over Canada.
Kate Middleton to host Red Roses at Windsor Castle this week
The event at Windsor Castle will include a guided tour for the players and coaching staff. This will be followed by an intimate reception where they will present their hard-earned trophy to the princess and join her for an official team photograph.
Kate’s hosting of the Red Roses not only marks a major royal endorsement of women’s sport, but it also signifies her continued return to public life following her private health battle.
The Red Roses’ win marks England’s third Women’s Rugby World Cup title and their first since 2014.
Kate celebrates 44th birthday
The reception comes shortly after Princess Kate’s 44th birthday, and as she carefully increases her public-facing duties following treatment for cancer in 2024.
After months of private recovery, she announced in January last year that she was in remission.
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Speaking to HELLO!, royal author Robert Jobson noted that 2025 was a year of “survival and recovery” for the princess. Meanwhile, 2026 will reportedly be about being “selective”.
“Her diary is already filling up,” Jobson said. “But she won’t go back to the old pace. It will be meaningful, with gaps in between for her family.”
He also added that Kate’s royal role will now revolve around her wellbeing and her children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
“Running on empty isn’t an option,” Jobson said. “The days of just powering through are done.”
Kate also recently wrapped up her seasonal Mother Nature video series. The personal project was inspired by her love of the outdoors and its healing effects.
The final instalment was released last week to mark her birthday. Meanwhile, it reflected on “the coldest season” and how nature became a sanctuary during her cancer journey.
“Even in the coldest, darkest season, winter has a way of bringing us stillness, patience, and quiet consideration,” Kate said in a voiceover.
“Where the stream slows just enough for us to see our own reflection. To discover the deepest parts of ourselves. Alongside the whispers in the pulse of every living thing, I find myself reflecting on how deeply grateful I am.”
Read more: Prince William and Kate Middleton share touching moment on surprise hospital visit
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