Birmingham 2022: Queen Elizabeth to miss Commonwealth Games opening ceremony

The Commonwealth Games will see more than 5,000 athletes from 72 nations compete at Alexander Stadium from July 28 to August 8.

Queen Elizabeth has skipped several events in recent times as she has suffered mobility issues and often uses a walking aid. Earlier this year, Charles and his son Prince William attended the State Opening of Parliament on her behalf, with the Prince of Wales frequently undertaking overseas engagements on her behalf.

Just recently, the queen’s job description was rewritten.

A new version of the monarch’s “official duties” was drafted following her Platinum Jubilee, reducing the list of obligations she “must fulfil” and placing greater emphasis on the support of the wider royal family.

Last month, the Prince of Wales hailed the sporting spectacle a show of “unity” in these uncertain times.

He said: “In a world currently riven by conflict and division, these Games – so aptly called ‘the friendly games’ – stand as a shining celebration of our unity, our diversity and our pursuit of shared excellence.”

Queen Elizabeth has skipped several events in recent times as she has suffered mobility issues and often uses a walking aide. Earlier this year, Charles and his son Prince William attended the State Opening of Parliament on her behalf, with the Prince of Wales frequently undertaking overseas engagements on her behalf.

Just recently, the queen’s job description was rewritten.

A new version of the monarch’s “official duties” was drafted following her Platinum Jubilee, reducing the list of obligations she “must fulfil” and placing greater emphasis on the support of the wider royal family.

Last month, the Prince of Wales hailed the sporting spectacle a show of “unity” in these uncertain times.

He said: “In a world currently riven by conflict and division, these Games – so aptly called ‘the friendly games’ – stand as a shining celebration of our unity, our diversity and our pursuit of shared excellence.”