SportHorse racingThe DerbyKing Charles and Queen Camilla will attend Epsom Downs for the Betfred Derby 2026 on Saturday, marking their first Derby appearance as monarchs and continuing a royal tradition synonymous with the famous meeting12:55, 29 May 2026This year's Betfred Derby will carry a distinctly royal feel, with the King and Queen confirmed to attend Epsom Downs for the prestigious occasion.‌The Derby was the only Classic that the King's late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, never managed to win as an owner, coming closest during her Coronation year of 1953 when Aureole finished second to Pinza.‌She was a devoted racegoer at the Derby, absent from the fixture on just two occasions throughout her lengthy reign. That tradition has been carried on by the King and Queen, who visited on Oaks day in 2024 to present the Coronation Cup, and will once again make the trip to the celebrated Surrey Downs to take in its most prestigious day of racing.‌Epsom's general manager Jim Allen said: "We are honoured and thrilled the King and Queen will be joining us at Epsom Downs on Derby day."Their Majesties show great enthusiasm, interest and support for horseracing in the UK and their attendance next week will be a proud moment for all of the team here and everyone connected with the racecourse.Article continues below"Derby day provides joy and entertainment to millions of people around the world as one of Britain's most famous and iconic events, and royal attendance has been synonymous with the meeting for generations. We are delighted that Their Majesties will be continuing this tradition next week."Both the King and Queen serve as patrons of the Jockey Club, which owns and operates Epsom Downs Racecourse. Their attendance comes just over a week before Royal Ascot gets under way, where the iconic purple, gold and red silks will have plenty of opportunities to build on Desert Hero's triumph at the meeting in 2023.Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌The QueenJockey Club Inc.Royal AscotCoronation CupThe DerbyRoyal FamilyEpsom Downs Racecourse