The real reason why Zara Tindall never sits in the Royal Box at Wimbledon


King Charles's niece Zara and her husband, former rugby player Mike, do not typically sit in the Royal Box on Centre Court


Zara and Mike Tindall during day ten of Wimbledon© Getty
HELLO!
Danielle StaceyOnline Royal Correspondent - London
Eleanor DyeOnline Royal Correspondent
Updated: July 8, 2026
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Zara Tindall and her husband Mike have made a surprise appearance as they returned to Wimbledon for day 10 of the tournament. 

King Charles's niece, 45, looked glamorous in a blue and white striped shirt and sunglasses with her blonde bob lightly curled as she chatted to former F1 boss Christian Horner and his wife, Spice Girl Geri Halliwell

Former rugby player Mike, 47, matched his wife in a cream blazer and blue shirt as they watched the action on Centre Court at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club. 

The couple, who have been married since 2011, did not join their fellow royals, Queen Camilla and newlyweds Harriet and Peter Phillips, in the Royal Box. 

Geri Horner, Christian Horner and Zara Tindall during day ten of the 2026 Wimbledon Tennis Championships at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club on July 08, 2026 in London, England© WireImage
Zara laughed with Geri and Christian

So, why do Zara and Mike not typically join their family in the Royal Box?

It's all down to one of Zara's roles outside her sporting career. The mum-of-three is a brand ambassador for several luxury brands, including Rolex, which has been partnered with Wimbledon for over 40 years.

Zara became an ambassador for the Swiss watch brand before she won gold at the World Equestrian Games in 2006 in Aachen. Although she does not carry out official duties, members of the family must abstain from cashing in on their royal status, and that is why she and Mike do not sit in the royal box.

WATCH: Zara and Mike return to Royal Ascot

Entry to the coveted seats on Centre Court come via an invitation from the Chairman of the All England Club, taking into account suggestions from members of The Championships' Organising Committee, The Lawn Tennis Association and other relevant sources.

Zara Tindall watching the action on centre court on day ten of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships © PA Images via Getty Images
Zara Tindall watching the action on centre court on day ten of the 2026 Wimbledon Championships

There are 74 spots in total in the royal box, with guests sitting in dark green Lloyd Loom wicker chairs. 

There is a strict dress code that spectators must adhere to, with gentlemen required to wear a suit or a jacket and tie, while ladies must refrain from wearing hats to avoid obscuring the view of those seated behind them.

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