The 2026 awards mark the sixth Earthshot Prize, created by Prince William to spotlight environmental solutions. Kate attended the first two ceremonies in 2021 (London) and 2022 (Boston) but was absent from the recent events in Singapore, Cape Town and Rio de Janeiro.
In January 2024 Kate announced a cancer diagnosis and chemotherapy; William travelled to Cape Town for the 2024 awards and said, "She's doing really well, thanks," adding his hope she was watching and cheering him on. Royal aides called Kate's Italy trip a "really significant moment" in her recovery, noting the visit focused on early childhood work she champions. Kate shared moving reflections from Reggio Emilia and signed her note, "Grazie di cuore, C."