4 Royal Duties Princess Kate Has Already Taken Over From Prince William and King Charles

Princess Kate joined the Royal Family in 2011 after marrying Prince William, and since then has shouldered some major royal responsibilities, so much so that she is now known as the strongest pillar of the monarchy. The Princess of Wales has steadily built an impressive portfolio of royal duties, and several of her most prominent responsibilities have come through royal handovers. From military appointments once held by William and King Charles to major sporting patronages, Kate has taken on roles that have strengthened her position as one of the most senior working royals.

One of Kate's most significant military appointments is her role as Colonel of the Irish Guards, which she took over from William in 2023, who previously held the post since 2011. With the role, Kate also became the first female Colonel of the regiment and formally took on the responsibility at the Irish Guards' St Patrick's Day Parade in March 2023. Upholding the integrity of the role, Kate maintains a close relationship with the regiment, including attending ceremonial occasions, meeting serving personnel and veterans, and supporting the Guards and their families. She continues to attend the annual St Patrick's Day celebrations as Colonel.

Another role that Kate took over from William has an important RAF connection. In August 2023, she was appointed Royal Honorary Air Commodore of RAF Coningsby, taking over a role that her husband had held since 2008. The handover was especially fitting given Kate's existing connection with the Armed Forces and her own growing military portfolio, which includes her post as the Commodore-in-Chief of the Fleet Air Arm. William had previously held the honorary appointment in recognition of his close relationship with the Royal Air Force.

Not only from William, but Kate has even taken over Charles's roles and responsibilities, including another major military position. Back in August 2023, Charles appointed Kate Colonel-in-Chief of 1st The Queen's Dragoon Guards. The appointment gave Kate another direct connection with a historic military regiment. During her first visit as Colonel-in-Chief, she met serving personnel and their families, learned about the regiment's operational work, and presented Long Service and Good Conduct medals. The appointment was part of a wider reshuffle of royal military affiliations following Charles becoming King.

Kate also became Patron of the Rugby Football League in February 2022, again taking over from Charles. The role was maintained by Charles after Prince Harry's exit from the royal fold. The Princess has embraced the responsibility, attending rugby league matches and supporting England's men's, women's and wheelchair teams. She has also used the role to highlight inclusion and community projects connected to the sport. Today, her rugby responsibilities remain a prominent part of her royal work, with the Princess continuing to support both rugby union and rugby league.