Here’s why Meghan Markle is skipping Royal Ascot this year

And it all makes sense.

This week saw the start of Royal Ascot, with the annual five day horse race being a favourite of royals and celebrities alike.

It’s tradition for royal family members to join the Queen on the first day of Royal Ascot, with a full house showing up last year.

But during the festivities this week, two royals were noticeably absent.

Yes, while the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Charles and Camilla, Duchess of Cornwall were all in attendance, two people who were missing were Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Why? Because Meghan is on maternity leave.

The new mother broke her maternity leave earlier this month, taking part in the Queen’s official birthday celebrations, Trooping the Colour, but has since returned to her leave, not expected to resume her duties until later in the year.

‘The Duchess is still on maternity leave,’ a royal source informed HELLO!, ‘But [Trooping the Colour] is a family moment, with the wider members of the royal family all in attendance. The Queen’s birthday celebration is a family event.’

It is thought that Meghan will now stay on maternity leave until late summer, with the Duchess spending some quality time with baby Archie in Frogmore Cottage.

We’re wishing Meghan a relaxing rest of her her maternity leave!